PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF NEWSPAPER COVERAGE OF KIDNAPPING AND BANDITRY IN NIGERIA (A STUDY OF RESIDENTS OF OFFA)

This study evaluates public perception of newspaper coverage of kidnapping and banditry in nigeria (a study of residents of offa). It is anchored by four objectives, specifically to evaluate the level of awareness among the public regarding kidnapping and banditry issues as presented in newspapers, to examine the factors influencing public perception of newspaper coverage of kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria, to assess how newspaper coverage shapes public opinion regarding government action and policy related to security and to provide recommendations for improving newspaper coverage to better inform the public and address their concerns regarding these issues. Quantitative and qualitative research approach was adopted by making use of survey research method. Questionnaire was used as the research instruments. Findings from the study noted that the Nigerian newspapers gave adequate attention to kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria as a result of high reportage, and most of the reports about kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria were written in news story format without much in-depth stories such as editorial and features. Most of the respondents believe that exposure to the media is influencing public perception of newspaper reports on kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria and majority of the respondents agreed that newspaper reports on kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria contributes meaningfully to its reduction in the society. The study concluded that revealed that newspaper reports on kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria contributes meaningfully to its reduction in the society. Therefore, it can be concluded that newspaper reports on kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria is effective in educating the public. The study recommended that the newspaper media should publish regular features, series or special reports on kidnapping and banditry, highlighting consequences on victims and their families, and efforts should be made on publishing expert opinions analysis and commentary from security experts, policymakers and social commentators to provide insight and potential solution.