Impact of Fake News on X on Political Knowledge and Participation Among Undergraduates of Unilorin

proliferation of fake news on X and its multiplying effect on the political knowledge
and participation among undergraduates has become a thing of concern in the society. This
study examined the impact of fake news on X on political knowledge and participation
among undergraduates at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria. Anchored on the agenda setting
theory, the study explored the impact of fake news on X on the political knowledge and
participation of UNILORIN undergraduates and proposed strategies for mitigating the
impact of fake news on X. A quantitative research design was employed using survey
methodology with a sample size of 400 respondents, selected through stratified sampling.
The findings revealed high exposure of UNILORIN undergraduates to fake news on X
significantly impacts their political knowledge. However, contrary to expectations,
UNILORIN undergraduates were neutral on whether fake news on X has impacted their
political participation. Findings revealed that poor regulations by government and social
media platforms, technological advancement, time constraint, and lack of knowledge of
fact checking contributed to the spread of fake news on X. The study recommends the need
for improved legislation, public enlightenment, self-restraint by makers of fake news, and
enhancing media literacy to reduce the spread of fake news and mitigate the impacts of
fake news on X on political knowledge and participation of UNILORIN undergraduates. It
also recommended that knowledge of fact checking be incorporated into GNS.
Keywords: Fake News, X, Political Knowledge, Political Participation, Agenda
Setting Theory.