INDISPENSABILITY OF MUSIC IN POLITICS AND DEMOCRATIC ENGAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

• Ebenezer Oluwatoyin AYEYEMI Ph.D.

  Author

Music is widely regarded as a fundamental aspect of human existence, permeating all stages of life from birth to death and extending beyond the production of ordinary sound to a meaningful cultural and communicative practice. Owing to its diverse functions in society, music occupies a significant position as a medium of communication, particularly in its persuasive application within the Nigerian political landscape. This paper examines the existence and functions of music in Nigerian politics, with specific attention to its role in political communication and mobilization, while also addressing the persistent tendency of political actors to underrate the discipline and neglect its development. The study adopts a qualitative research approach, utilizing content analysis of political campaign music, party jingles, and electoral performances, alongside observational insights from selected political events. Findings indicate that music serves as a potent instrument for persuasion, identity formation, and voter engagement in Nigerian politics, effectively shaping public opinion and reinforcing political messages. Despite this, the study reveals a clear contradiction between the extensive use of music in political processes and the lack of institutional support for its growth, as evidenced in poor policy attention and limited investment in music education and development. The paper, therefore, suggests practical measures for uplifting the status of music, including increased recognition of its societal value, strategic inclusion in policy frameworks, and enhanced support for music education and professional practice in Nigeria.

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