| Abstract: |
This study investigated how selected Nigerian newspapers
framed ethno-political violence in their editorials. From a
population of 1,464 editorials, 416 were analysed, drawn from
four major newspapers - The Punch, This Day, Leadership, and
Daily Trust - published between January and December 2019.
Guided by media framing and social responsibility theories,
the research employed a triangulated qualitative design,
combining content analysis with survey methods through in
depth interviews. Using the Krejcie and Morgan sampling
table, 104 editions were purposively selected from each
newspaper. Findings showed that while the media can serve as
effective instruments for promoting peace, they may also
intensify tensions during crises if reporting is not handled
responsibly. The study revealed that many Nigerian
newspapers framed ethno-political issues through biased
lenses influenced by factors such as ethnic prejudice,
ownership interests, religious intolerance, and sectional
loyalties. Ethno-political violence was largely portrayed as a
political and security concern, with emphasis on dialogue,
reconciliation, and national restructuring. The study enhances
understanding of the media's influence on public discourse
surrounding ethno-political conflict and underscores the need
for responsible journalism in fostering peace and stability. It
concluded that such conflicts remain persistent in Nigeria, with
media representations shaped by complex dynamics that can
reinforce divisions and negative stereotypes. Consequently,
the study recommended balanced reporting, strengthened
media regulation, increased public sensitisation, and a
commitment to professionalism and national interest in
journalism practice. |
