Political Communication and Deliberation as Tools for Sustainable Political Serenity and Development in Nigeria

Abstract

Political communication is fashioned towards the enlightenment of the citizenry on sustainable democratic political
development. Nigeria as a political entity has been polarized from inception with the amalgamation of the Northern and
Southern Protectorates for administrative convenience without recourse to the possible challenges associated with such
decision. Political communication and deliberation from the Nigerian perspective seem to be advancing political
aspiration(s) in ways such as propaganda, segregation, prejudice and lobbying through the use of different channels and
forms of communication. The functionality of a system is dependent on the collection of organs working in a co-ordinate
fashion for the survival of the organism. In the context of this study, various socio- political groups in Nigeria have made
attempts to address the political serenity in Nigeria. Findings show that in political communication and deliberation, the
origin and alliance of the political elites and the media houses cannot be separated from their various geo-political zones.
This paper adopted the content analysis research methodology which involves a review of existing literature on political
communication and deliberation as tools for sustainable political serenity and development in Nigeria. It is pertinent to state
that political communication is a veritable tool for achieving and sustaining peace and serenity as well as development in the
country. It therefore strongly recommends among others that it is important to develop a viable political communication
framework that will ensure constant political enlightenment programmes. In addition, the government should focus on
addressing the issues of marginalization and injustice in the appointment of people into key political positions, and embrace
transparency and inclusiveness in all affairs