The Influence of Social Media on Conflict Escalation Among Youths in Plateau State

This study investigates the influence of social media platforms on the escalation of conflict among youths in Plateau State, a state in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone with a prolonged history of inter-communal violence. The proliferation of smartphones and increased internet penetration in semi-urban communities have made social media a significant conduit for the dissemination of hate speech, misinformation, and inflammatory content that can rapidly accelerate conflict situations. Adopting a survey research design, the study collected data from 180 young people aged 18 to 35 across Jos North, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom local government areas using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The study is theoretically grounded in Social Cognitive Theory and the Spiral of Silence model. Findings indicate that a significant proportion of respondents encountered hate-laden content via Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok within 48 hours before recent communal tensions, suggesting a correlational relationship between social media consumption and community violence triggers. The study also identifies algorithmic amplification of divisive content as a structural challenge beyond individual user behaviour. Recommendations include establishing a state-level social media monitoring unit, collaborating with platform providers to flag ethnically inflammatory content in local languages, and integrating digital literacy and responsible online conduct into youth peace-building programs. The findings have policy implications for conflict early warning in digitally connected Nigerian communities. Keywords: social media, conflict escalation, youths, Plateau State, hate speech.