The Impact of Broadcast Media on the 2020 Edo Gubernatorial Elections. A Critical Survey

Table of Contents

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

1.2 Statement of problem

1.3 Aim and objectives of the study

1.4 Research questions

1.5 Significance of the study

1.6 Scope of the study

1.7 Limitations of the study

1.8 Definition of terms

CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Theoretical Framework

2.1.1 Agenda Setting Theory

2.2 Conceptual framework

2.2.1 Broadcast media and elections

2.2.2 Purpose of elections

2.2.3 Broadcast media and electoral process

2.2.4 Nigerian broadcast media in retrospect

2.2.5 Radio, television and the 2020 Edo State gubernatorial elections

2.2.6 Roles of the Media in Elections

2.2.7 Media as Watchdog

2.3 Empirical review

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research design

3.2 Population of the study

3.3 Sample size and sampling technique

3.4 Data collection method

3.5 Research instrument

3.6 Data analysis

CHAPTER FOUR: DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSION

5.1 Summary

5.2 Conclusion

5.3 Recommendations

Research Objectives and Themes

The primary aim of this research is to evaluate the influence and role of broadcast media (radio and television) in shaping the political landscape and voter behavior during the 2020 Edo State gubernatorial elections. The study seeks to investigate how media coverage contributes to the electoral process, whether it fosters an informed electorate, and the extent to which broadcast platforms adhere to journalistic responsibilities in a democratic society.

• The impact of broadcast media on the political habits of the electorate.
• The application of the Agenda Setting Theory in the context of political broadcasting.
• The effectiveness of radio and television as tools for social and political mobilization.
• The evaluation of media fairness in providing equitable access to political candidates and parties.
• The assessment of the media's function as a watchdog for democratic transparency.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION: Introduces the critical role of media in democracy, outlines the problem statement regarding electoral integrity in Nigeria, and defines the research scope for the 2020 Edo gubernatorial study.

CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW: Examines theoretical foundations like Agenda Setting Theory and explores the conceptual relationship between broadcast media, elections, and the media's role as a societal watchdog.

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: Details the descriptive survey approach, sampling techniques for the population in Ikorodu, and the instruments used for data gathering and analysis.

CHAPTER FOUR: DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION: Presents the findings from collected questionnaires, using statistical tables to assess respondent demographics, political interests, and perceptions of media influence.

CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSION: Synthesizes research findings, concludes on the media’s ability to affect election outcomes, and provides strategic recommendations for future media conduct during elections.

Keywords

Broadcast media, Gubernatorial elections, Edo State, Democracy, Agenda Setting Theory, Political communication, Voter behavior, Electoral process, Media accountability, Social mobilization, Watchdog role, Political parties, Public opinion, Journalism, Media coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the core focus of this research?

The research evaluates the impact and effectiveness of radio and television broadcast media on the 2020 Edo State gubernatorial election, specifically focusing on how they educate the populace and shape political discourse.

What are the primary themes discussed?

The work covers themes such as the media's watchdog role, electoral transparency, agenda-setting, political mobilization, and the challenges of media neutrality in a democratic environment.

What is the central research question?

The study primarily seeks to determine how broadcast media mobilized the Nigerian electorate and whether its coverage helped or hindered the attainment of a free and fair election in the 2020 Edo State context.

Which scientific method is utilized?

The research employs a descriptive survey methodology, utilizing questionnaires distributed to a sample of 250 respondents to gather empirical data for descriptive analysis and chi-square testing.

What does the main body of the work cover?

The main body integrates theoretical literature on media functions in democratic processes with the practical analysis of data collected from respondents regarding their voting behaviors and media consumption.

Which key terms characterize this study?

Key terms include broadcast media, agenda-setting, social mobilization, electoral process, and democracy.

How does the study define the "watchdog" role of the media?

It defines the watchdog role as the media’s duty to scrutinize political activities, prevent corruption, and ensure accountability through transparent reporting of electoral processes.

What conclusion does the author reach regarding the 2020 election?

The author concludes that broadcast media coverage significantly impacts electoral results and suggests that, while generally active in mobilization, there is a continued need for media practitioners to maintain professionalism and provide equal opportunities for all political parties.