ASSESSMENT OF AUDIENCE PERCEPTION OF MEDIA COVERAGE OF FEBRUARY 2023 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

ABSTRACT: This study aims to analyse the audience's view of media coverage of the February 2023 Presidential election, with a specific focus on the South-East geo-political zone as a case study. Nevertheless, the scope of the research study was limited to the five South-East states of Abia, Imo, Enugu, Anambra, and Ebonyi in order to gather diverse perspectives from the populace regarding the manner in which the presidential election held in February 2023 was conducted. The primary discoveries of this research investigation indicate that political parties and officials engaged in the practise of giving bribes to voters in order to secure their support for their favoured candidates. Furthermore, it was seen that numerous political parties engaged in the practise of coercing individuals to provide them permission to cast their votes during the election. The necessary population samples were surveyed using questionnaires. The researchers conducted interviews with the audience and proceeded to gather, analyse, and interpret the data. The employed methodology involved the utilisation of percentage-based analysis. The collected data was organised into tables. The conclusion and recommendation were derived from the analysis of the collected data. In conclusion, it can be deduced from the analysis that the electoral commission should prioritise the implementation of extensive voter education initiatives aimed at enlightening the general public about the consequences that await individuals who engage in electoral misconduct. Once more, it is imperative for election officials to actively promote and uphold the principles of incorruptibility, diligence, and abstention from accepting bribes.