In a remarkable event held at the University of Ibadan, a groundbreaking book on Cyber Politics titled “Cyber Politics: Social Media, Social Demography, and Voting Behaviour in Nigeria” authored by Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, Head of Media Relations Management at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), was unveiled to a captivated audience.
Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the transformative role of the internet and social media in shaping political landscapes globally. He lauded Dr. Ibietan’s pioneering research, which delves into the intricate relationship between social media networks and voting behavior in Nigeria, particularly focusing on the significant impact observed during the 2015 presidential election.
Professor Umaru A. Pate, President of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), commended Dr. Ibietan for his invaluable contribution to communication scholarship.
He highlighted the book’s relevance in advancing our understanding of the evolving dynamics of cyber politics and its implications for Nigerian society.
Prof. Peter Esuh, Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies at the University of Uyo, echoed the sentiment, praising Dr. Ibietan’s Channel-Factor Model as a groundbreaking framework for analyzing political communication in Africa. He emphasized the book’s importance for students, scholars, and practitioners in navigating the complex interplay between social media and politics.
Journalist Azu Ishiekwene, reflecting on Dr. Ibietan’s work, noted its contemporary relevance and practical insights into voter behavior. Drawing from the book’s exploration of social factors and influencers in political decision-making, Ishiekwene emphasized the need for individuals to critically assess their online interactions and their impact on political engagement.
A testimonial from Dr. Ibietan’s academic supervisor, Prof. Abiodun Salawu of North-West University, South Africa also highlighted his dedication to scholarship and effective academic writing. It underscored the rigorous research process behind the book, which now stands as a valuable resource for understanding the intersection of social media and politics in Nigeria.
The unveiling of “Cyber Politics: Social Media, Social Demography, and Voting Behaviour in Nigeria” marks a significant milestone in the study of political communication in Africa. Dr. Ibietan’s meticulous research and innovative insights promise to enrich academic discourse and inform policy decisions in the ever-evolving digital age.
