Our perspectives are shaped by many factors, but in recent years, we have been inundated with an overwhelming flood of bite-sized information across social media platforms. The intertwining of social media and traditional media: television, newspapers, and radio, all of which now operate online, has created a relentless stream of data tailored to individual interests, as dictated by digital algorithms.
Adding to this dynamic is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), which further influences the information citizens consume. Yet, amid this deluge, we grapple with disinformation, misinformation, and the weaponization of technology for malicious ends.
The media’s power to shape narratives and set agendas has never been stronger. Platforms compete fiercely for the dwindling attention spans of an increasingly distracted public. Politicians, political parties, and government institutions leverage these tools to engage audiences, investing heavily in crafting messages that advance their objectives. In doing so, they inadvertently or deliberately, shape policy debates, political outcomes, and governance priorities.
In Nigeria, we find ourselves on the march again as the 2027 general elections loom. Much like the 2013–2014 political realignment that birthed a grand opposition against then-President Goodluck Jonathan, forces are coalescing to form an alternative front to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP). Their goal? To unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or whoever emerges as the APC’s flagbearer in 2027.
Some may argue it’s too early, but for politicians, election cycles never truly end. The moment one contest concludes, scheming for the next begins. While the dust from the 2023 elections and its protracted litigation had barely settled, recent months have seen heightened momentum toward a mega opposition alliance. These groups are capitalizing on Nigeria’s persistent socio-economic, political, and security challenges under the current administration to rally support.
The media, both traditional and digital, is saturated with news, analyses, and opinions about this emerging coalition. In many ways, it is shaping public perception: Will this alliance hold? Can it produce a credible, consensus candidate capable of defeating the APC? Even at this early stage, the media is already framing the 2027 political agenda, subtly conditioning Nigerians’ expectations.
As always, the media primes the public for “what’s next,” feeding a cycle of anticipation that leaves citizens spellbound by the latest updates. Unfortunately, even the typically critical civil society sector is not immune, often relying on these news cycles to shape dialogues, issue statements, and align programming with trending topics.
Yet, as 2027 approaches, citizens remain largely reactive rather than proactive. There is little cohesive organizing around what the elections truly mean for the average Nigerian or how to strategically engage to ensure outcomes align with their aspirations. Instead, the political trajectory appears dictated by media forces, politicians, and vested interests, with citizens and civic actors relegated to the sidelines, responding only after agendas have long been set.
Is there a way out?
The path is challenging, but not impossible. Citizens and civic groups must organize differently by:
- Sensitizing the public on emerging political developments and their implications.
- Isolating critical governance issues that should define electoral choices in 2027.
- Providing objective assessments of government performance at all levels.
- Mobilizing resources for voter education and participation.
- Creating platforms to scrutinize opposition movements and propose alternative socio-economic policies.
It’s a daunting task, but achievable. Reclaiming the narrative demands that citizens critically assess governance realities, recognize their agency in driving change, and act now. The time to start is today.
Joseph Amenaghawon is currently Head, CivicHive, Nigeria