Fake News in Nigerian Politics: Breakneck of Nigerian Democracy

This study was carried out to determine how fake news affects Nigerian politics and explore reasons for this trend. The chapter used secondary data in the form of scholarly essays, research works and commentaries on fake news in Nigerian politics to examine two notable theories, propaganda and agenda setting. The findings showed that Nigerian politics is rife with fake and unsubstantiated news, frequently spread to hurt and denigrate political opponents. It has also been established that fake news is employed by both government and non-governmental players to gain an advantage. Technological advances and the liberalization of the media have contributed to the spread of fake news, and the study recommends sustained media literacy, public education, openness and transparency in government and democratic institutions, as well as adherence to journalism and media standards and ethics in dealing with fake news in Nigerian politics.