Nigerian political campaigns are increasingly characterized by high-profile musical performances, viral jingles, and praise-singing, a trend that critics argue turns rallies into theatrical spectacles that overshadow serious policy debates and issues of statecraft.
Nigerian election campaigns are increasingly relying on musicians and catchy tunes to excite voters, often at the expense of substantive policy discussions. From King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) to Afrobeats acts, artists turn campaign grounds into concert arenas, using their popularity to sway sentiment.
Abuja-based producer Chibueze “Beatplug” Okoro noted that for the 2023 elections, “The goal was to make campaign songs go viral like club hits.”
Critics argue this focus on entertainment over engagement cheapens democracy. Former Ebonyi lawmaker Eni Uduma Chima said, “The fact that a campaign rally should be a venue for vigorous debates and arguments based on issues… is lost.”
Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura of Nasarawa State University contended that Nigeria’s democracy suffers from “a surplus of political theatrics.” He warned, “When the beat of entertainment replaces the rhythm of ideas, the culture of accountability dies.” The trend highlights a shift towards emotional, theatrical politics rather than informed evaluation.