ANALYSING THE CHANNEL OF INFORMATION ACQUISITION AND DISSEMINATION AMONG RESIDENTS OF AYEDAADE LOCAL GOVERNMENT, OSUN STATE

This study examines the channels of information acquisition and dissemination among residents of Ayedaade Local Government Area of Osun State. The main objective of the study is to identify the various sources through which residents obtain information and the methods through which such information is shared within the community. Specifically, the study seeks to determine the most accessible and reliable communication channels, assess the effectiveness of both traditional and modern media, and examine the challenges associated with information flow in the area. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Data were collected from primary sources through the use of structured questionnaires administered to selected residents within the local government area. The data collected were analyzed using simple percentage, frequency distribution, and mean statistical tools. Findings from the study revealed that residents rely on a combination of traditional and modern channels such as radio, interpersonal communication, mobile phones, and social media for information acquisition and dissemination. The study also found that radio and interpersonal communication remain the most dominant and trusted sources due to their accessibility and affordability. However, challenges such as poor network connectivity, low literacy level, and limited access to digital technologies hinder effective information dissemination. The study concluded that while multiple communication channels exist within Ayedaade Local Government, there is a need to improve access to modern communication technologies and strengthen existing traditional systems to ensure effective information flow. The study recommends that government and relevant stakeholders should invest in communication infrastructure, promote digital literacy, and support community-based information systems to enhance information dissemination among residents.