Entertainment industry fuels immoral behavior and violence in Nigeria.
In Nigeria, television and music content that depicts immoral behavior is contributing to a rise in violence and other negative societal impacts. Some popular shows, like A Duniya, in Hausa entertainment industry and music videos, like Naira maliey, often feature characters engaging in immoral and illegal behavior, such as crime, violence, and substance abuse. This exposure has the potential to normalize such behaviors, especially among young people, leading to an increase in crime and violence.
The Nigerian entertainment industry, including television shows, music, and social media, has been shown to have a profound impact on the country’s youth. Studies have found that exposure to media portraying violence, substance abuse, and other harmful behaviors can have lasting effects on young people, leading them to engage in similar behaviors in real life. In addition, the influence of Western media and the internet is often blamed for eroding traditional values and social norms in Nigeria. The song Naira Maliey has inspired the formation of a youth group called the “Marlians.” The group has been associated with anti-social behavior, such as violence, drug use, and crime. The term “Marlian” is also used to refer to a lifestyle that involves a rejection of societal norms and values, such as school and work. In Nigeria, the states of Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt have been identified as having a high prevalence of Marlians.
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The rise of the Marlian movement has been met with resistance from many Nigerians, especially in the northern State of Borno. In response to the perceived immoral and anti-social behavior of the Marlians, the state government of Borno has launched an anti-Marlian campaign. This campaign includes efforts to discourage youth from joining the Marlian movement, as well as programs to provide alternatives to the Marlian lifestyle. These efforts are aimed at preventing the spread of crime and violence in the State. It’s true that this is not just a problem in Nigeria but in many other countries as well. There are many examples of media content that can have a negative impact on the youth, such as the Netflix show Elite, which depicts casual sex and drug use as the norm among high school students. There is also the popular video game Grand Theft Auto, which glorifies violence and crime.
Moreover, there are a number of ways in which media content can promote or normalize same-sex relationships, also known as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) identities. Some TV shows and movies include LGBT characters and storylines, which can help to normalize these identities and make them more visible to the public. Social media platforms also provide a space for LGBT people to share their stories and connect with others who share their identities. It’s important to note that media representation alone does not necessarily cause someone to identify as LGBT, but it can play a role in creating a more accepting and supportive environment.
To address the issue of media content influencing violence, substance abuse, prostitution, LGBT identities, crime, and a decline in cultural norms. The Nigerian government can partner with organizations like the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) to develop and enforce media regulations. These regulations could include codes of conduct for content creators, and guidelines for reporting on sensitive issues. Additionally, media literacy programs could be implemented in schools and other educational settings to help young people critically evaluate media messages. Finally, the government could support the production of more positive media content that promotes responsible behavior and healthy values.
Yusuf Ibrahim wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Borno State.
