A Critical Discourse Analysis of Selected Acceptance Speeches of Winners of APC and PDP 2022 Presidential Primary Election

Abstract

This study analyses the linguistic and discursive devices utilised in the acceptance speeches of Bola Ahmed Tinubu from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Atiku Abubakar from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) during Nigeria's 2022 presidential primary elections. It employs qualitative research methods, including close reading, coding, and thematic analysis. The research identifies 21 discursive devices in Tinubu's speech and 19 in Abubakar's. The study reveals that actor description was the most frequently used in both speeches, while the PDP's rhetoric emphasised vagueness and polarisation. Conversely, the APC speeches showcased various rhetorical strategies, suggesting a more diverse communicative approach. Tinubu's acceptance speech emphasises themes of continuity, unity, and a progressive vision aligned with the Buhari's administration. His rhetoric is marked by expressions of gratitude towards party delegates, fostering a sense of collective endorsement and reinforcing his legitimacy as the party's candidate. By acknowledging the leadership of President Buhari and highlighting youth empowerment, Tinubu positions himself as a forward-thinking leader capable of guiding Nigeria towards progress. In contrast, Abubakar's speech focuses on the necessity for change, restoration of past prosperity, and strong appeals to party loyalty. He critiques the incumbent government's performance, presenting himself as a unifying figure who can heal divisions and restore national cohesion. This analysis employs Teun A. Van Dijk's Socio-Cognitive Model and the Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) approach to understand the role of language in shaping political ideologies and public opinion. The findings underscore both candidates' distinct rhetorical strategies and ideological frameworks, revealing their contrasting visions for Nigeria's future governance. By examining the acceptance speeches, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how political leaders use language to assert legitimacy and galvanise support within their parties, ultimately shaping the narrative of the 2022 Nigerian presidential primary election.