Impact Analysis Of Hate Speeches, Misinformation And Fake News On Nation-Building As An Index Of Sustainable Development In Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of hate speeches, fake news and misinformation on nation
building. Its objective is to advance knowledge on how the media shaped activities in the
society. Most especially, it examines the implication of new media on social integration or
cohesion as a significant component of nation-building. It argues that societies are vitally
functional based on the media instrumentality through which ideas and information are
shared for optimal citizens’ responsibilities. Presently, the nationhood status of Nigeria is
tense given the increasing insecurity threats, marginalization and economic challenges.
This paper is motivated to analyse the impact of hate speeches, fake news and
misinformation on nation-building in Nigeria. It adopts documentary methods of data
collection. This paper therefore establishes the intrigues of hate speeches as an inciting
factor for marginalisation among ethnic groups; unravels the tendencies of fake news on
citizens’ confusion and apathy; and expose the economic hiccups, sometimes, experienced
as a result of misinformation. It concludes that the plurality of new media in Nigeria has
significant effect on the threats to nation-building.