MASS MEDIA AUDIENCE PERCEPTION OF THE KILLING OF ENDSARS PROTESTERS IN LAGOS AMIDST INSECURITY IN NIGERIA

INTRODUCTION, RESEARCH OBJECTIVES, ETC

Abstract

EndSARS is a slogan for ban or stop of a particular section of the Nigerian Police units called SARS. The term is used by the protesters in different cities in Nigeria in the year, 2020 to drive home their anger towards Police brutality which happens to be one of the numerous elements of insecurity in Nigeria. This study was anchored on Development Media Theory which preaches the need for the mass media to assist government in nation building through their reportage which bring about national development. Using a survey research method, the study investigated the mass media audience perception towards the harassment and brutal killing of these protesters in Lekki, Lagos State by the Nigerian uniform armed men who suppose to protect lives. This incident contributed immensely to the growing insecurity concern in Nigeria. 399 copies of well structured questionnaire were distributed to respondents who are mass media audience to ascertain the role played by the media in condemning the killing. Findings revealed among others include that the media tackled the ugly incident to a large extent but were apprehensive by insecurity in the country. The researcher concluded that the media could not do enough because of fear of being harassed or killed by the armed uniform which point to the high level of insecurity in the country. The study recommended among others that the media should be brave enough to discharge the constitutional duties without fear of possible harassment.