Discursive Constructions of Borders in Online Feedback Platforms

This study applies Van Dijk’s (2001, 2004, 2006) socio-cognitive approach to Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to the study of discourse structures and patterns in online media feedback platforms in Nigeria. An investigation of discursive constructions becomes necessary because it is observed that they are laden with ideological processes that reflect exclusion and resistance among Nigerians and therefore raises the question of oneness and unity in the nation, more especially in relation to the global village. Data comprises 200 purposively selected Nigerian online newspaper readers’ comments on two social crises in Nigeria within 2012 and 2013. The study reveals that writers apply ideological discourse strategies such as “us-them categorisation”, “generalisation”, “evidentiality” and “polarisation” in the expression of their interpersonal relationships and socio-cultural realities. These help to clearly negotiate social and ethnic borders. The study also shows that the new media (the Internet) has created platforms for border formation and maintenance amongst Nigerians.