#OurMumuDonDo and #BringBackOurGirls: The Rebirth of Consciousness in Nigeria

Abstract

This chapter examines the first case study of Nigeria, focusing on two unique social movements of #OurMumuDonDo and #BringBackOurGrils, which have been at the forefront of advocating for good governance and accountability in Nigeria. The chapter argues that the country’s dire socioeconomic, political and cultural situation facilitated the creation of both movements and their activism. In addition, the chapter interrogates the ideological background of both movements, the micropolitics within the movements, and micro-macro relations (contestation) between the movements and the state actors. Using data collected from interviews and ethnography, the chapter argues that the ideological beliefs of the movements’ founders and leaders shaped the broader ideological belief of the movements, their strategy and engagement with the state. In addition, the study argues that the movements adopted strategies of ‘personalisation’ and ‘brand image’ as strategic tools in calling for social changes of mental revolution, ballot revolution and good governance in Nigeria and amongst Nigerians. While this strategy might have been effective in building the credibility of the movements, the perceived elitism within the movements and the selfish interests of these leaders/founders, which are played out within the microstructure of the movements, has resulted in the inability of the public and other stakeholders witnessing the overall objectives and ideological beliefs of social movements in Nigeria.