Press Coverage of Kidnapping for Ransom in Nigeria: A Content Analysis of The Guardian and Daily Trust Newspapers


Keyword : Kidnapping, Ransom, Press coverage, Media Representation, Nigeria.


Author(s) : Ter Moses Akase; Josiah Sabo Kente & Vivian Aziengbe

Abstract :   

This study employs a quantitative content analysis to examine press coverage of kidnapping for ransom in Nigeria between September 1 and December 2022, with a specific focus on articles from The Guardian and Daily Trust newspapers. The research addresses two primary questions: (1) the extent to which the selected newspapers report kidnapping cases during the specified period and (2) the strategies employed by these newspapers in reporting on kidnapping for ransom incidents. By analyzing 150 articles, the study identifies and analyzes key patterns and trends in media representation. Findings reveal extensive coverage by both newspapers, with emphasis on individual cases of kidnapping over group incidents. Ransom demands are prominently featured in the coverage, highlighting the financial motivations of perpetrators. However, discrepancies in coverage patterns between the two newspapers suggest potential differences in editorial priorities or audience considerations. These findings underscore the importance of responsible and ethical journalism practices to ensure accurate and balanced reporting on sensitive issues such as kidnapping for ransom. Furthermore, the study provides recommendations aimed at enhancing reporting practices in the media landscape. Recommendations include ensuring balanced coverage, increasing reporting on group kidnappings, humanizing victims, and fostering collaboration with law enforcement agencies. By adhering to these recommendations, journalists, editors, and media organizations can improve their reporting practices and contribute to a more informed public discourse on crime and violence in Nigeria. This study contributes valuable insights into media representations of crime and violence, furthering our understanding of the media's role in shaping public perceptions and responses to security challenges in Nigeria.

Download full Article

Recent Articles

Stereotypes and Its Influence on the Course of Study Choice and Communication Skills of First-Year Students of Christopher University
Philip Teniola David; Ayoola Olalekan Ajasa, Ph.D; Adejoke Adekanmbi, Ph.D & Aderinola Babatunde

Information Literacy Skills: Prerequisite for Library Resources Use by Public Secondary School Students in Oyo State, Nigeria
Touitou, Tina C., PhD; Ambassador-Brikins, Helen O.C., Ph.D; Owolabi Ruth Onajite, PhD & Adekunle, Janet Oluyemi, PhD

Bollywood Movie, Dubbing, Subtitling, Nigerian Yoruba Language and Audience Perception
Adeyemo Saheed O.A. & Adeyemi A. Ridwan, PhD.

Audience Perception of the Influence of Abrahamic Mission Programme of Radio Nigerian Network on Religious Intolerance
Greatandy Victor Iguoba & Onyedikachi Stanley Onovo, PhD

Utilisation of Social Media for the Promotion of Exclusive Breastfeeding among Nursing Mothers in Rural Communities in Akwa Ibom State
Benson Reuben Oke & Helen Ijeoma Nwachukwu

Women Awareness of Endometriosis Misdiagnosis through Mass Communication Strategies in Wukari LGA, Taraba State
Agabison Dorcas;? Okpoko C.C.? & Lazarus Siman

Newspaper Framing of Fubara-Wike Political Crisis in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic: A Comparative Analysis of Daily Sun, The Punch and Vanguard Newspapers
Ezemba Assumpta Onyinyechi

Content analysis of select Nigerian newspapers' Reportage of #EndbadGovernance Protest
Lega Agbadu Hassan;? Prof. T.M Akase? & Dr. Anthony Ogande

Application of Public Relations Strategies in the Management of Patients at Federal Medical Centre and Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi
Inja, Ndernen? & Nyitse, Gabriel T., PhD

Influence of Billboard Advertisements on Audience Awareness of Insecurity Issues in Nigeria: A Study of Edo State Residents
Blessed Frederick Ngonso, PhD?; Peter Eshioke Egielewa, PhD?; Betcher Osaguona Ekhosuhun, Esq.? & Ekwe Okwudiri, PhD

Promotion and Patronage of Products of Access and Zenith Banks by Customers in Akwa Ibom State
Nsikak Solomon Idiong? & Blessing Ufot Urua•

Language and Ideologies in Selected Advertising Posters of MTN and Orange from Dschang and Bafussam (Cameroon), 2024-2025
Dohseh Abigail Gabwa & Afutendem Lucas Nkwetta

Preliminary Pages for IJALMS
IJALMS Editorial Crew

FRSC SPEED LIMIT IN THE COURT OF PUBLIC OPINION: A SURVEY OF ENUGU STATE RESIDENTS
Dr. Maxwell M. Ngene

Appraisal of the Influence of Globalization on Local Cultural Identity in Nigeria
Omavuaire Lucky Edewor, Ph.D; & Collins Kediehor, PhD