It is noteworthy that 63.7% of our data actually have to do with motivating and mobilizing people for the elections. The
first blog in this series emphasizes the need for a drastic action to be taken to forestall previous woes associated with
elections in Nigeria. Chippla's Weblog (8 January 2005) cautions:
Considering the incredible difficulty associated with conducting free and fair elections in the complex and
multi-ethnic entity called Nigeria where allegiances are so diverse, it will definitely be a good idea if the
United Nations or some third party nation could be fully responsible for organizing the next Nigerian
presidential election. Otherwise, free and fair elections in Nigeria may remain a thing for the distant
future.
The number of blogs whose contents were mainly to spur the Nigerian electorates into desirable civic actions conform
with our thesis that weblogs are a medium for socialization and grassroots mobilization. After the rancorous 2003
elections, the Nigerian masses needed to be encouraged to shun civic apathy and exercise their fundamental human
rights to democratically elect their leaders.
Although the blogs posted on 14 April 2007 are numerically insignificant (only 2.4%), the message is pungent and
strategic. For instance, the contents on the blog of People's Arena (14 April 2007):
Today, Nigerians go to the poll to elect governors for her 36 States, and her state legislators. It would be
an opportunity once again, to avenge the last 4 years of recklessness and brigandage by corrupt
politicians.
It would be the first civilian to civilian transition, as President Obasanjo is bound by the constitution to
vacate the 'throne' for a new president, after 8 years of benevolent dictatorship and economic sloppiness.
The other blogs of the day monitored the voting process and discussions of perceived 'exit polls.' Yomi Says blog (14
April 2007) recounts a blogger's disappointment:
Up till now (11.15am), polling officers are yet to arrive at many polling stations. At other stations where
polling has started, there are reports of shortage of materials.
It doesn’t look good. As usual, this leaves good room for malpractices. In the past, this has resulted in a
situation where legitimate voters get tired and leave and pre-completed ballot papers are presented for
9 / 20
Convention