Influence of Twitter Messages on Youth Participation in the #EndSARS Protest

A Study of University of Lagos Undergraduates

Abstract

This study examines the influence of Twitter messages on undergraduate students' participation in the #EndSARS protest at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Nigeria. Drawing on Media Dependency Theory and Uses and Gratifications Theory, the research investigates how exposure to #EndSARS-related content shaped students' behaviours, including engaging in discussions, protesting, and encouraging others to participate. A quantitative survey design was employed, with data collected from 200 undergraduate students using a structured questionnaire. Results indicate a moderate level of influence, with 90% of respondents reporting that Twitter content prompted conversations about police brutality, 71% encouraging others to support the protest, but only 43% directly participating or donating. These findings highlight Twitter's role in mobilizing youth activism while underscoring barriers to direct action, such as safety concerns and government repression. The study also explores connections to broader societal issues, including how police brutality exacerbates drug and substance abuse vulnerabilities among youth, and how digital platforms can reduce inequalities through education and awareness campaigns. The study contributes to understanding digital platforms' impact on social movements in developing contexts and recommends strategies for leveraging social media in civic engagement.