Navigating Information Landscapes: An Analysis of Online Media on X for Political News in the Era of Mainstream Media Distrust

Abstract

In Nigeria, as in many parts of the world, traditional media outlets continuously give in to the various social media platforms. Against this backdrop, social media platforms, particularly X spaces formerly known as Twitter have emerged as an alternative source of political news and discourse, especially among the youth demographic. This research explores the evolving landscape of information consumption among the Nigerian youth, specifically focusing on their reliance on X and its spaces as a primary source of political news amidst growing media distrust. With a surge in digital platforms providing alternative avenues for news dissemination, this study employs content analysis as a methodological approach to understand the informational content shared within the X Spaces platform. The research aims to investigate the factors driving Nigerian youth towards X Spaces with a focus on X, examining the role it plays in shaping political narratives, fostering civic engagement, and contributing to the formation of public opinion. By employing content analysis, the study seeks to uncover patterns, themes, and sentiments embedded in the discourse within X Spaces, shedding light on the information dynamics that influence political perspectives among the youth demographic. The findings conclude that one of the major reasons the GenZ media are taken over rapidly is due to the fact-checking and investigative role they play in critically examining information published by the traditional media. This over the years has helped build an online presence and credibility as revealed in their algorithm