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Eka Ikpe, Reader, Development Economics in Africa and Director, African Leadership Centre, King's College London

Nigeria elections: the surprising influence of Afrobeats music on politics

Nigeria Tiwa Savage Bola Tinubu Fela Kuti Obongjayar APC National Assembly PDP

In the run-up to Nigeria’s February 2023 elections, the country’s younger generation has mobilised to demand change and redefine the political landscape – and music has been pivotal.

Despite being dismissed by several political commentators, Nigeria’s younger generations have shifted the former two-party liberal electoral democratic competition between the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) and the prominent People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This is due to their overwhelming support for Labour Party candidate, Peter Obi.

The use of music in campaigning for these elections shows the influence of this generation. Political candidates now routinely release videos showing them dancing to Afrobeats music.

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