Legitimizing State Control: President Tinubu’s Discourse on Social Media Regulation

This paper undertakes a critical discourse analysis (CDA) of President Bola Tinubu's pronouncements on social media, specifically his characterization of it as a "menace" necessitating regulation. Applying Fairclough's three-dimensional model of CDA, the analysis reveals how Tinubu constructs a threat narrative, portraying social media as undermining truth and national unity. This narrative is supported by his assertion of epistemic authority, positioning himself as the arbiter of "truth" and legitimizing government intervention. Furthermore, the discourse mobilizes nationalistic sentiment, framing regulation as a patriotic duty. This study exposes the underlying power dynamics and ideological agendas driving the push for social media regulation in Nigeria, highlighting potential risks to freedom of expression and democratic participation. By analyzing the interplay of language, power, and technology, this research contributes to debates on online governance, free speech, and the balance between public good and individual freedoms in the digital age.