Authors
• Mohammed Laminu Mele PhD,molaminu@gmail.com,Department of English, Faculty of Arts University of Maiduguri Borno State, Nigeria
• Prof. Joseph Wilson,wilson@unimaid.edu.ng,Department of Mass Communication Borno State Nigeria
• Abubakar Bukar PhD,,Department of English, Faculty of Arts University of Maiduguri Borno State Nigeria
•
Abstract
The insurgency in North-East Nigeria has remained a complex emergency for over a decade. Although its intensity has significantly reduced, local communities still harbour fears of a potential resurgence. These fears are fuelled among others by the radical ideologies and attitudes that initially sparked the insurgency with the potential to reignite similar conflicts. Addressing these challenges requires tackling their root causes, particularly the ideological radicalisation of youth through various means. Thus, this study focuses on the dynamics of popular media in conflict creation and mitigation among youths in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) and Jere Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State. Its specific objectives include identifying popular media content frequently accessed by youth in the region, examining the processes of ideological and attitudinal influence through these media and analysing effective techniques for countering radicalisation, and proposing a framework for reconfiguring media content to promote peace and discourage violence. Using a qualitative research approach, the study conducted interviews and focus group discussions with purposively selected youths from ten wards—five from each LGA. Findings revealed that Facebook and TikTok are the most frequently used platforms among youths in the two LGAs. Comedy and religious content are the popular media contents
frequently used by youth. The processes of frequent exposure help them distinguish between right and wrong behaviours, reinforces ethical conduct, and provides moral guidance. Additionally, platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and TikTok were identified as effective for sharing peacebuilding and deradicalisation content due to their accessibility and ease of use for both educated and uneducated individuals. The framework for reconfiguring poplar media content is the use of media content creators consistently sharing messages that promote peace, unity, and peaceful coexistence. In conclusion, the research underscores the potential of popular media, when strategically utilised, as a powerful instrument for promoting peace and addressing youth restiveness. The study recommends that stakeholders, including state and local government authorities (LGAs), prioritize the creation and dissemination of engaging and educational content on platforms frequently used by youths, such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and TikTok, to foster peace and discourage violence.
Keywords
Insurgency
Popular media
Borno
Youth
