In Bayelsa State, as in many parts of Nigeria, social media has become a battleground for political influence. With governance increasingly taking a backseat to online theatrics, politicians have found a new weapon: social media influencers. These digital personalities, once champions of public discourse, are now often deployed as propaganda tools to manipulate public perception, shielding incompetent leaders—political nincompoops—from scrutiny.
Social media influencers in Bayelsa have built platforms that command thousands, sometimes millions, of followers. Originally known for entertainment, lifestyle content, or social commentary, many have now ventured into political advocacy—some genuinely, others for financial gain. Political actors in the state have recognized this influence and have strategically co-opted these influencers to control narratives, suppress dissent, and push misleading public relations campaigns.
Instead of amplifying the voices of the people, some influencers now serve as digital mercenaries, attacking critics of the government while praising leaders who have done little to improve the lives of Bayelsans. They hype projects that exist only on paper, celebrate political appointees for performing basic duties, and flood social media with trivial distractions while key governance issues remain unaddressed.
In Bayelsa, political nincompoops thrive on theatrics rather than governance. They invest in staged empowerment programs, photo-op events, and social media spectacles while the state grapples with poor infrastructure, environmental degradation, and youth unemployment. Instead of addressing real concerns—such as flooding, economic instability, and insecurity—they parade influencers to dance around these issues, literally and figuratively.
One of the most common tactics is the “palliative showmanship” strategy. Videos of politicians handing out foodstuff or small cash to citizens flood social media, giving the illusion of generosity while sidestepping the systemic failures that keep the people impoverished. Another is the “deflection tactic,” where influencers shift blame to the opposition or external forces, excusing the inefficiencies of those in power.
This political charade is particularly evident during election seasons when influencers suddenly become mouthpieces for candidates, spreading half-truths, attacking opponents, and packaging mediocrity as transformation. Unfortunately, once elections are over, these same influencers disappear from meaningful engagement, having collected their fees and moved on.
The overreliance on social media theatrics comes at a great cost. It deepens political apathy among the youth, who grow disillusioned by the endless cycle of deception. Instead of demanding accountability, many resign themselves to the idea that governance is simply about “who has the best online strategy.” This allows incompetent leaders to remain in power without pressure to deliver real development.
Moreover, it fosters a culture of mediocrity. When governance is reduced to social media gimmicks, leaders stop prioritizing tangible achievements. Road projects are abandoned, schools remain underfunded, and local businesses struggle, all while social media paints a false picture of progress.
Bayelsans must recognize the power of social media as a tool for accountability rather than deception. Influencers, especially those with genuine concern for the state, must resist the temptation of political patronage and instead use their platforms to ask tough questions, highlight community struggles, and push for real policy changes.
Citizens must also be more discerning, refusing to be swayed by digital distractions. The focus should be on track records, policies, and sustainable development—not staged social media performances. Finally, the traditional media, including Niger Delta Herald, will continue to serve as a watchdog, countering these misinformation with investigative journalism and fact-based reporting.
Bayelsa deserves leaders who work, not performers who deceive. It is time to demand more than just online theatrics and ensure that governance translates into real impact for the people.
About Author
