IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON BENIN RESIDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF 2023 FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

This researcher examined the impact of social media on Benin residents’ perceptions of 2023 fuel subsidy removal in Nigeria. This researcher was set to assess the level of awareness among Benin residents on the purpose of the 2023 removal of fuel subsidies, examine the impact of the social media on the attitude of Benin residents towards the 2023 fuel subsidy, find out how social media as information sources shaped public understanding on the 2023 fuel subsidy removal, and identify the social media factors influencing public perception of the 2023 fuel subsidy. The agenda setting theory served as theoretical framework for this researcher. This researcher adopted survey research design to obtain data from 400 residents in Benin City using structured questionnaire. However, only 350 copies of questionnaire were returned/valid. Data were analysed using descriptive statistical techniques. This researcher found a high level of awareness among residents of Benin regarding the 2023 removal of fuel subsidies in Nigeria. This researcher  further noted that social media has significantly influenced the attitudes of Benin residents towards the fuel subsidy removal, as it shapes public opinion, with many individuals’ expression opposition due to the increased living costs and hardships faced in Benin City. The research also found that social media has played a crucial role in shaping public understanding of the 2023 fuel subsidy removal in Nigeria by providing insights into the economic implications of the policy and presents a balanced view of its pros and cons. This researcher found that social media factors such as misinformation circulating on social media about the policy, the emotional tone of discussions which can sway perceptions, the opinions expressed by friends and followers on social platforms, and the impact of visual content tends to affect public perceptions of the fuel subsidy removal. This researcher therefore recommends that government and relevant stakeholders should intensify efforts to provide accurate and timely information about the fuel subsidy removal through social media channels. This includes using official platforms to clarify misconceptions and address concerns raised by residents.