Chapter Two Pda Tinubu
Chapter Two Pda Tinubu
LITERATURE REVIEW
Political discourse analysis (PDA) is a multidisciplinary field that examines the use of
language in political contexts to understand power relations, ideologies, and social structures
(Chilton, 2004). It encompasses the study of verbal and written communication produced by
political actors, including politicians, policymakers, media outlets, and the public, with a focus
on how language shapes political perceptions and behaviors (Fairclough, 2013). PDA seeks to
uncover the underlying meanings, intentions, and implications embedded within political
discourse, exploring how language constructs, reflects, and reproduces political realities (Van
Dijk, 1997).
coverage, and public statements (Wodak & Meyer, 2001). It examines not only the content of
political discourse but also its form, structure, and rhetorical strategies, aiming to reveal the
(Fairclough, 2013). PDA also considers the socio-political context within which political
discourse occurs, taking into account factors such as historical legacies, cultural norms, and
(Fairclough, 2013). Its roots can be traced back to the work of linguists such as Ferdinand de
Saussure and Mikhail Bakhtin, who explored the relationship between language, power, and
social structure (Van Dijk, 1997). However, it was not until the latter half of the 20th century that
In the 1970s and 1980s, scholars like Norman Fairclough and Teun A. van Dijk
reproducing and contesting social inequalities (Fairclough, 1995; Van Dijk, 1997). This critical
turn in discourse analysis laid the foundation for the study of political discourse as a site of
ideological struggle and hegemonic contestation (Chilton, 2004). Since then, political discourse
analysis has expanded its theoretical and methodological repertoire, incorporating insights from
interdisciplinary nature and methodological diversity (Wodak & Meyer, 2001). Scholars employ
a range of qualitative and quantitative methods, including textual analysis, corpus linguistics,
ethnography, and critical discourse analysis, to investigate political communication in its various
forms and contexts (Fairclough, 2013). This interdisciplinary and methodological pluralism
concepts that shape its analytical approach (Fairclough, 2013). One such framework is critical
discourse analysis (CDA), which emphasizes the interplay between language, power, and
ideology in shaping social and political realities (Fairclough, 1995). CDA examines how
language is used to reproduce and challenge dominant discourses, social hierarchies, and
strategic construction of meaning through the selection and emphasis of certain aspects of a
message (Entman, 1993). Framing analysis examines how political actors frame issues, events,
and identities to influence public perceptions and policy outcomes (Snow & Benford, 1988).
ways in which texts reference and draw upon other texts to create meaning (Fairclough, 2013).
Intertextual analysis explores how political discourse is situated within broader discursive
contexts, including historical narratives, cultural myths, and media representations (Fairclough,
2013).
political outcomes, and maintaining democratic governance. Its significance lies in its ability to
inform, persuade, mobilize, and legitimize political actors and institutions within society. This
section examines the importance of political communication in shaping public opinion and
influencing political outcomes, the role of language, rhetoric, and discourse in political
political issues, policies, and candidates, thereby shaping their perceptions, attitudes, and
behaviors (Negrine, 2008). Through various communication channels such as speeches, debates,
advertisements, and media coverage, political actors seek to engage with the public, garner
support, and mobilize voters during elections and policy debates (Stromer-Galley, 2000).
Effective political communication can sway public opinion, influence electoral outcomes, and
determine the success or failure of political agendas and initiatives (Blumler & Kavanagh, 1999).
accountability, and transparency within political systems (Norris, 2000). Thus, studying political
communication is essential for understanding the dynamics of public opinion formation, electoral
communication to convey messages, shape narratives, and persuade audiences (Hart, 2011).
Language serves as a medium through which political actors articulate their ideas, beliefs, and
values, while rhetoric involves the strategic use of language to appeal to emotions, values, and
identities (Ware & Linkugel, 1973). Political discourse, on the other hand, encompasses the
broader socio-political context within which communication occurs, including power relations,
social norms, and ideological frameworks (Fairclough, 2013). Together, these linguistic and
rhetorical devices shape political narratives, construct identities, and frame issues in ways that
resonate with specific audiences (Entman, 1993). By analyzing language, rhetoric, and discourse
in political communication, researchers can uncover the underlying meanings, intentions, and
effects of political messages, as well as their impact on public opinion and political behavior.
ideological contestation within society (Fairclough, 1995). Political discourse reflects and
perpetuates dominant ideologies, social hierarchies, and institutional practices, shaping how
individuals perceive and engage with political authority (Van Dijk, 1997). By analyzing political
discourse, researchers can uncover the underlying power relations, interests, and conflicts that
values, and worldviews collide, shaping the contours of political debate and policy formation
(Laclau & Mouffe, 1985). Thus, studying political discourse is crucial for understanding the
complexities of political power, ideology, and social change within contemporary societies.
its colonial, independence, and post-independence periods, reflecting the country's complex
socio-political landscape and its struggles with democracy, governance, and nation-building.
During the colonial era, Nigeria was under British rule, and political communication
primarily served the interests of the colonial administration. The British utilized various
disseminate colonial ideologies, maintain social control, and justify their rule (Osaghae, 1998).
Indigenous languages were often marginalized in favor of English, the language of the colonial
rulers, limiting access to information and political participation among the Nigerian populace
(Uchendu, 2016).
resistance against colonial rule, and articulating the aspirations of the Nigerian people (Ibrahim,
1995). Political leaders such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello
utilized newspapers, public speeches, and grassroots organizing to mobilize their followers and
independence era was marked by political instability, military coups, and authoritarian rule,
which had profound implications for communication practices in Nigeria (Momoh, 2018). The
military regimes of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s imposed strict censorship laws, suppressed
dissenting voices, and controlled the media to maintain their grip on power (Ikejiani-Clark,
1988).
With the transition to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria witnessed a resurgence of democratic
ushered in a new era of political pluralism, media liberalization, and citizen engagement (Lugard,
2006). Political parties, civil society organizations, and the media played increasingly important
roles in shaping political discourse, mobilizing voters, and holding elected officials accountable
(Omotola, 2008).
communication practices in Nigeria, shaping the contours of public discourse, media landscape,
and political participation. For instance, the legacy of colonialism left a lasting impact on
Nigeria's communication infrastructure, media institutions, and linguistic diversity. The colonial
legacy of linguistic imperialism and cultural hegemony continues to shape language use, media
ownership, and access to information in Nigeria (Uchendu, 2016). Furthermore, the struggles for
among Nigerians, paving the way for the emergence of indigenous media outlets, political
the flow of information (Momoh, 2018). The draconian press laws, state-owned broadcasting
networks, and surveillance of political dissidents stifled free expression, undermined journalistic
In contrast, the transition to civilian rule in 1999 heralded a new era of media pluralism,
technologies, such as the internet and social media, has democratized access to information,
expanded spaces for public discourse, and empowered citizens to participate in political
processes (Omotola, 2008). However, challenges such as fake news, disinformation, and online
hate speech have emerged as pressing concerns, highlighting the need for ethical journalism,
with over 500 indigenous languages spoken across the country (Gordon, 2005). The use of
language in politics reflects this diversity and encompasses multiple linguistic registers,
particularly in regions where they are widely spoken. Political actors often use indigenous
languages to connect with local communities, convey messages in culturally resonant ways, and
mobilize support during elections and campaigns (Adebayo, 2019). By speaking in the language
of the people, politicians can establish rapport, build trust, and demonstrate cultural sensitivity,
thereby enhancing their appeal and legitimacy among voters (Adegbija, 2017).
English, as the official language of Nigeria, also plays a crucial role in political
and public discourse (Jowitt, 1991). Political elites and educated urban populations often use
English in formal settings such as government proceedings, public speeches, and media
interviews (Mazrui & Mazrui, 1998). Fluency in English is often associated with education,
social status, and political sophistication, making it a valuable asset for political leaders seeking
Nigerian Pidgin, a creole language derived from English and indigenous African
politics (Awonusi, 2003). Nigerian Pidgin is widely understood and spoken across ethnic and
regional boundaries, making it an effective tool for reaching mass audiences, particularly among
urban youth and grassroots communities (Akinnaso, 2013). Politicians often use Nigerian Pidgin
in rallies, campaign jingles, and social media posts to connect with ordinary Nigerians, convey
populist messages, and project an image of accessibility and authenticity (Eze, 2018).
political discourse in Nigeria, shaping the content, style, and reception of political messages
languages, cultures, and identities, each with its own historical legacies and political aspirations
(Smith, 2002).
Ethnic identity often intersects with linguistic diversity, as ethnic groups are often
associated with specific languages or language families (Awoniyi, 1998). Political discourse in
Nigeria is often framed along ethnic lines, with politicians appealing to ethnic loyalties,
sentiments, and grievances to mobilize support and consolidate power (Suberu, 2001). Ethnic-
based political parties, movements, and interest groups advocate for the rights and interests of
culture, and socio-economic development contribute to divergent political interests and priorities
(Omotola, 2010). The North-South divide, for example, has historical roots in colonialism and
has persisted as a fault line in Nigerian politics, influencing electoral dynamics, resource
allocation, and governance arrangements (Mamdani, 2005). Political discourse often reflects
these regional cleavages, with politicians exploiting regional grievances, inequalities, and
aspirations to gain electoral advantage and advance their agendas (Omotola, 2009).
their representatives during election campaigns to communicate their policies, vision, and appeal
to voters. These speeches serve as a primary medium for candidates to articulate their platform,
persuade voters, and differentiate themselves from opponents (Norris, 2000). Campaign speeches
connect with voters, mobilize support, and shape public opinion (Diamond, 2003).
Campaign speeches are delivered in various settings, including rallies, town hall
meetings, debates, and media interviews, and are often tailored to specific audiences and
contexts (Stromer-Galley, 2014). They are characterized by their persuasive intent, emotive
language, and strategic framing of issues, as candidates seek to win over undecided voters,
energize their base, and sway public opinion (Jost & Hunyadi, 2002).
Effective campaign speeches share several key characteristics that contribute to their
impact and persuasiveness. One such characteristic is authenticity, whereby candidates convey
sincerity, passion, and conviction in their delivery, enhancing their credibility and connecting
with audiences on a personal level (Jamieson, 2000). Authenticity is often achieved through the
use of personal anecdotes, storytelling, and conversational language, which humanize the
Rhetorical devices play a crucial role in shaping the content and style of campaign speeches,
helping candidates to frame issues, evoke emotions, and construct persuasive arguments
include:
vivid imagery, and evoke emotional responses from audiences (Lakoff & Johnson, 1980).
Metaphors such as "bridge to the future" or "battle for change" frame the election as a
transformative journey or struggle, inspiring hope and rallying support behind the
candidate's agenda.
themes throughout a speech, making them more memorable and persuasive (Hogan,
2003). Candidates repeat phrases such as "hope and change" or "make America great
again" to emphasize their campaign promises and imprint them in the minds of voters.
1990). Candidates use anaphora to build momentum, emphasize important points, and
command attention. For example, "We will fight for justice. We will fight for equality.
4. Emotional Appeals: Emotional appeals appeal to the emotions and values of voters,
tapping into their fears, hopes, and aspirations (Perloff, 2018). Candidates use emotive
eliciting an emotional response from audiences and motivating them to take action
(Cialdini, 2007).
In addition to rhetorical devices, effective campaign speeches employ persuasive strategies that
appeal to the rational and emotional dimensions of voters' decision-making processes (Petty &
1. Logic and Reasoning: Candidates use logical arguments, evidence, and statistics to
support their claims and rebut opposing viewpoints (Tindale, 1999). By presenting a
2. Social Proof: Social proof involves referencing the support or endorsement of trusted
authorities, experts, or ordinary citizens to validate the candidate's message and build
emphasizing the stakes of the election and the consequences of inaction (Cialdini, 2007).
By framing the election as a critical moment in history and highlighting the limited
opportunity for change, candidates motivate voters to mobilize and seize the moment
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, born on March 29, 1952, in Lagos State, Nigeria, is a prominent
Nigerian politician, businessman, and former governor. He hails from a humble background,
growing up in the cosmopolitan city of Lagos. Tinubu obtained his early education at St. John's
Primary School, Aroloya, Lagos, before proceeding to the prestigious Government College,
Ibadan, for his secondary education. He later attended Richard Daley College, Chicago, Illinois,
Tinubu's foray into politics began in the 1990s when Nigeria transitioned from military to
civilian rule. He emerged as a prominent figure within the pro-democracy movement, advocating
for democratic reforms and human rights. Tinubu played a key role in the formation of the
National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a group that agitated for the restoration of
In 1999, with the return to civilian rule, Tinubu contested and won the governorship
election in Lagos State under the platform of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), becoming the
first civilian governor of the state in the Fourth Republic. His tenure as governor, spanning from
1999 to 2007, marked a significant period of socio-economic development and political
infrastructure, education, healthcare, and transportation, earning him acclaim as the "Architect of
Modern Lagos."
Tinubu's rise to prominence within Nigerian politics can be attributed to his strategic
political acumen, grassroots mobilization efforts, and effective leadership style. As a founding
member of the Action Congress (AC), later renamed the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN),
Tinubu played a pivotal role in the opposition's resistance against the ruling People's Democratic
During his tenure as governor of Lagos State, Tinubu demonstrated strong leadership and
governance skills, implementing innovative policies and projects that transformed the state's
landscape and improved the welfare of its residents. His administration focused on infrastructural
development, urban renewal, and poverty alleviation initiatives, which earned him popularity and
Tinubu's political influence extends beyond Lagos State, as he played a key role in the
formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a merger of several opposition parties that
unseated the ruling PDP in the 2015 presidential election. As a national leader of the APC,
Tinubu continues to wield significant influence within the party and Nigerian politics at large,
shaping its policies, strategies, and electoral fortunes (Aiyede & Ogen, 2019).
Bola Ahmed Tinubu's political ideologies, policy initiatives, and strategic alliances have
been instrumental in shaping his political career and influencing Nigeria's political landscape.
Ideologically, Tinubu is known for his commitment to progressive politics, fiscal conservatism,
and federalism. He advocates for policies that promote economic growth, development, and
During his tenure as governor of Lagos State, Tinubu implemented various policy
initiatives aimed at transforming the state's economy, infrastructure, and social services. His
administration prioritized urban renewal projects, public transportation reforms, and investments
in education and healthcare. Tinubu's policies focused on promoting private sector participation,
job creation, and poverty alleviation, earning him recognition for his pragmatic approach to
Strategically, Tinubu is renowned for his ability to build and sustain political alliances
across ethnic, regional, and party lines. He has cultivated a broad coalition of supporters,
including traditional rulers, business leaders, youth groups, and civil society organizations.
Tinubu's strategic alliances have enabled him to consolidate power, mobilize resources, and
expand his political influence beyond Lagos State to the national level (Aiyede & Ogen, 2019).
of purpose. He is known for his eloquence, charisma, and ability to connect with diverse
audiences through effective storytelling and persuasive rhetoric. Tinubu's leadership qualities,
including his vision, decisiveness, and resilience, have earned him respect and admiration among
promoting social justice, and fostering economic prosperity in Nigeria. He seeks to empower
ordinary citizens, particularly those at the grassroots level, by advocating for policies that
enhance their socio-economic well-being and political participation. Tinubu's long-term political
objective is to contribute to the consolidation of democracy, the rule of law, and good
sociology, and critical theory, which aims to investigate the relationship between language,
power, and ideology in discourse (Fairclough, 2013). CDA focuses on uncovering the ways in
which language is used to construct and reproduce social inequalities, dominant ideologies, and
examining how language is employed by political actors to shape public opinion, legitimize
authority, and maintain hegemonic control (Wodak & Meyer, 2009). By analyzing the linguistic
features, rhetorical strategies, and discursive practices within political texts, CDA seeks to reveal
within discourse.
Several key theorists have contributed to the development of Critical Discourse Analysis,
each offering unique insights into the role of language in social practice and power relations.
Among the most influential figures in CDA are Norman Fairclough, Teun A. van Dijk, and Ruth
Wodak.
Norman Fairclough is widely recognized for his work on the dialectical relationship
Teun A. van Dijk has made significant contributions to the study of power and ideology
Dijk, 2001). His analysis of discursive strategies, such as legitimization, polarization, and
exclusion, sheds light on how language is used to maintain or challenge existing power
Ruth Wodak is known for her research on the intersection of discourse, identity, and
Fairclough, 2010). Her studies on populist rhetoric, nationalism, and identity construction
provide insights into the discursive strategies employed by political actors to mobilize
At the core of CDA is a critical perspective that seeks to uncover hidden power relations,
ideological biases, and hegemonic discourses within society (Fairclough, 2001). From a critical
standpoint, language is not neutral but serves as a site of struggle and contestation, reflecting and
CDA interrogates the ways in which language is used to legitimize, naturalize, or resist
dominant ideologies and social structures (Chouliaraki & Fairclough, 1999). By analyzing the
discursive strategies, semantic choices, and rhetorical devices employed in political discourse,
CDA reveals how language functions as a tool of persuasion, manipulation, and social control
(Wodak, 2006).
CDA highlights the role of discourse in constructing and reproducing social identities, group
categorization, stereotyping, and othering, political discourse shapes perceptions of self and
other, fostering solidarity among in-groups while marginalizing or stigmatizing out-groups (van
Dijk, 2006).
References
Odumosu & A. Mtenje (Eds.), Language and politics in Africa: Contemporary issues and
Adebanwi, W. (2019). Yoruba elites and ethnic politics in Nigeria: 1900–1966. Cambridge
University Press.
A. L. Ogunrotifa (Eds.), Language and governance in Nigeria: Issues and challenges (pp.
Aiyede, R. T., & Ogen, O. (2019). Political godfatherism and democratic governance in Nigeria:
Awoniyi, T. (1998). Language policy and national integration in Nigeria. In J. Simpson (Ed.),
Language and national identity in Africa (pp. 129-139). Oxford University Press.
Blumler, J. G., & Kavanagh, D. (1999). The third age of political communication: Influences and
Diamond, E. (2003). Campaigning for president 2004: Strategy and tactics, new voices and new
techniques. Routledge.
Fairclough, N. (1995). Critical discourse analysis: The critical study of language. Longman.
Fairclough, N. (2003). Analyzing discourse: Textual analysis for social research. Routledge.
Fairclough, N. (2013). Critical discourse analysis: The critical study of language (2nd ed.).
Routledge.
Pantheon Books.
Hart, R. P. (2011). Political tone: How leaders talk and why. University of Chicago Press.
Jost, J. T., & Hunyadi, M. (2002). The psychology of system justification and the palliative
Lakoff, G., & Johnson, M. (1980). Metaphors we live by. University of Chicago Press.
Mamdani, M. (2005). Citizen and subject: Contemporary Africa and the legacy of late
Mazrui, A., & Mazrui, A. A. (1998). The power of Babel: Language and governance in the
Osaghae, E. E. (1998). Crippled giant: Nigeria since independence. Indiana University Press.
Omotola, J. S. (2008). Democratization and gender identity in Nigeria: The impact of the
Omotola, J. S. (2009). Understanding Nigeria’s Fourth Republic: Continuity and change. Africa
Omotola, J. S. (2010). Regionalism and ethnicity in Nigerian politics: Continuity or change? The
Omotola, J. S. (2012). Governance and politics in Lagos State, Nigeria: A study of impacts.
Suberu, R. T. (2001). Ethnic minority conflicts and governance in Nigeria. Journal of Modern
Stromer-Galley, J. (2000). On-line interaction and why candidates avoid it. Journal of
Communication.
Stromer-Galley, J. (2014). Presidential campaigning in the internet age. Oxford University Press.
Van Dijk, T. A. (1997). Political discourse and ideology. Journal of Political Ideologies, 2(3),
201-220.
Wodak, R. (2001). What CDA is about: A summary of its history, important concepts and its
Wodak, R. (2006). Mediation between discourse and society: Assessing cognitive approaches in
Wodak, R., & Fairclough, N. (2010). Approaches to discourse analysis. Blackwell Publishing.
Wodak, R., & Meyer, M. (2001). Methods of critical discourse analysis. Sage.