Alternative Journalism and Hashtag Activism: The Influence of Netizens in the Drive for Social Justice in Southern Nigeria

Abstract

Violations of civil liberties and disregard for basic human needs in Nigeria’s socio-political and economic setting have given rise to alternative journalists; equipped with social media and the effective use of hashtags, drawing attention to various social issues and mobilising for action towards amelioration such problems. This study investigated the trend of alternative journalism facilitated by hashtag activism in Southern Nigeria and how it has been used in advocating for social justice in Southern Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted and 122 Mass Communication students responded to the Google Forms questionnaire from three Nigerian universities in Southern Nigeria. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics. An average mean rating of 3.27 and 3.02 indicated respondents’ concurrence with using hashtags and their impact on social justice advocacy respectively. Concerted government and public response in addressing issues given prominence by alternative journalists is important to foster social justice.