PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF THE MEDIA ON INSECURITY IN OGUN STATE. (A CASE STUDY OF OKE-ELA COMMUNITY, ILARO OGUN STATE).

This study examined the public perception of media coverage of insecurity in Ogun State with a focus on the Oke-Ela community, Ilaro, Ogun State. The objectives were to investigate how the media reports insecurity, to identify the dominant sensationalism and framing techniques used, to assess how media coverage influences public perception, and to analyze the implications of media-driven perceptions for national security and governance. The study adopted a survey research design, and data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to residents of Oke-Ela community. The findings revealed that the media predominantly reports insecurity in a sensational and event-driven manner, often using emotive language and alarming headlines. This pattern of reporting significantly shapes public perception by heightening fear and anxiety, even in communities with minimal exposure to violent incidents. Furthermore, the study found that such coverage undermines public trust in security agencies and governance while contributing to a sense of vulnerability among citizens. The study concludes that while the media plays a crucial role in raising awareness about insecurity, its sensational framing techniques often distort reality and aggravate public fear. It recommends balanced and responsible reporting, capacity building for journalists in conflict-sensitive communication, and improved government-media collaboration to ensure accurate and constructive coverage of insecurity issues in Nigeria