Project Abstract

Abstract
The study aims to investigate the audience perception of newspaper coverage of Fulani herdsmen attacks in Nigeria, with a focus on newspaper readers in Akwa Ibom State. The Fulani herdsmen attacks have been a pervasive issue in Nigeria, leading to loss of lives and properties, displacement of communities, and significant socio-political implications. However, the way these attacks are covered by the media, particularly newspapers, can influence public perception, attitudes, and responses to the crisis. This research will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques to gather comprehensive data on how newspaper readers in Akwa Ibom State perceive the coverage of Fulani herdsmen attacks. The qualitative aspect will involve in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to explore the nuanced views, emotions, and interpretations of readers regarding the news content on Fulani herdsmen attacks. On the other hand, the quantitative part will utilize surveys distributed among a representative sample of newspaper readers to quantify and analyze their general perceptions and attitudes towards the coverage. The study will be guided by agenda-setting theory and framing theory to understand how newspapers shape public perception and influence the salience of the Fulani herdsmen attacks in the minds of the audience. By examining the framing devices, language choices, visual elements, and overall tone used in newspaper coverage, the research seeks to uncover the underlying factors that may contribute to shaping audience perceptions of the crisis. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable insights into how newspaper coverage of sensitive and complex issues like Fulani herdsmen attacks influences audience perceptions and attitudes in Akwa Ibom State. Understanding the audience's viewpoint can have implications for media practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts. By identifying potential biases, stereotypes, or gaps in the coverage, this research can contribute to improving media representations of the Fulani herdsmen crisis and fostering a more informed and empathetic public discourse on the issue. Overall, this study aims to bridge the gap between media representations and audience perceptions, shedding light on the role of newspapers in shaping public understanding of the Fulani herdsmen attacks in Nigeria, particularly among readers in Akwa Ibom State.

Project Overview