A Multimodal Discourse Analysis of Placards and Visual Symbols in the 2024 End Bad Governance Protests in Nigeria

Résumé

This study examines how Nigerian protesters used both words and images during the 2024 End Bad Governance protests to speak out against poor leadership and hardship. It focuses on the placards (signs) they carried and the symbols they used to send powerful messages. The research used Multimodal Discourse Analysis to study how words and visuals work together to create meaning. Pictures and news reports from the protests were used as the main data. The study is based on the Social Semiotics theory by Kress and van Leeuwen, which helps explain how different signs (words and images) carry meaning. The findingsshow that many of the messages on placards expressed pain, hunger, and the need for change. Protesters often used English, Nigerian Pidgin, and local languages to reach a wide audience. These messages helped bring people together and push for action. The study shows that combining language and visuals is a powerful way to protest. It suggests that schools and civic groups should teach young people how to use words and images to speak up for their rights.