Shettima warns elections not decided on Facebook or Twitter
Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasised that the 2027 general elections in Nigeria will not be decided on social media platforms such as Facebook or Twitter, stressing that ballots cast at polling units and the will of the electorate are what truly determine electoral outcomes. Shettima made the remark during a public engagement where he addressed growing concerns about misinformation and political campaigning on social media.
In his comments, Shettima noted that while platforms like Facebook and Twitter have become major spaces for political discourse, debates, and campaign messaging, they do not have any legal role in the electoral process. He reminded politicians, supporters, and the general public that the official mechanisms for conducting elections are established by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and governed by the Electoral Act, which outline the procedures for voter registration, voting, counting, and announcement of results.
The Vice President also warned against the spread of fake news, online harassment, and deceptive content that could mislead voters or create false narratives about candidates and parties. He reiterated that social media should be used responsibly and called on political stakeholders to focus on substantive engagement with Nigerians on key issues affecting the country, such as the economy, security, education, and infrastructure. Shettima’s appeal comes as political activity ramps up ahead of the 2027 elections, with digital campaigns increasingly shaping public perception and voter behaviour.
Shettima’s statement reflects ongoing debates in Nigeria about the influence of social media on politics, including concerns about cyber manipulation, misinformation, and attempts to influence electoral integrity. By highlighting that elections are decided at the polls, he sought to reinforce confidence in democratic institutions and encourage citizens to participate actively in the formal voting process.
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