L THE ROLE OF THE RADIO IN CREATING AWARENESS AGAINST DRUG ABUSE IN OKIGWE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

ABSTRACT This study was carried out in order to determine the effect of the radio in creating awareness against drug abuse in Okigwe L.G.A. The objective of the study was to find out the main cause of drug abuse amongst residents of Okigwe and also examine the role of the radio in creating awareness against drug abuse in Okigwe. The study was anchored on exposure theory and agenda setting theory. In order to ascertain this, the survey method was adopted, a total of 250 copies of questionnaire were produced and distributed out of this number, 220 were returned. The major findings revealed that residents of Okigwe listen to the radio and most especially radio programmes on drug abuse. It was also concluded that the radio is the most effective channel of communication especially in rural areas such as Okigwe. Majority of the respondents agree that they listen to radio programmes on drug abuse to enable them think better and enlighten as well as inform them about drug abuse. It is therefore recommended that government should make adequate provision of more drug agencies, create seminars/workshops, get the here of victims of drug abuse to enable them tell their stories thereby minimizing the intake of drugs.