THE ROLE OF OZIZA FM RADIO PROGRAMME ‘‘AKUKO SIRI’’ IN OPINION MOULDING AMONG IMO STATE RESIDENTS
Authors:
Iheanacho O. Cajetan, PhD, Okoli Angela Maria, PhD, Agbim Kenneth, *Ogai Joseph & Etumnu Emeka W.
Abstract:
The study examined the role of Oziza FM ‘Akuko Siri’ in opinion moulding among Imo State residents. The study was anchored on the agenda-setting theory. The survey method was adopted; the study has a population of 555,500 from which a sample size of 385 was arrived at using the Australian sample size calculator. The study adopted the multistage sampling technique, and the questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Findings revealed that 54% of respondents are moderately exposed to the Akuko Siri programme on Oziza FM. 94% of respondents confirmed that the Akuko Siri programme on Oziza FM presents matters probing government policies and programmes for public debate. 56% of respondents agreed that the Akuko Siri programme on Oziza FM is an eye-opener programme to the residents on government dealings. Furthermore, it was revealed that 61% of respondents strongly agreed that the Akuko Siri program on Oziza FM has helped in carrying the masses along by presenting government issues for public discussion, while 70% of respondents strongly agreed that the Akuko Siri programme has provided space for public reviews, evaluation, and contributions on government affairs. According to the findings, radio continues to be the principal mode of communication for reaching the vast majority of the general population in shaping public opinion. Hence, the study recommended that the respondents avail themselves of the opportunity of being highly exposed to the programme (Akuko Siri), as being moderately exposed is not enough. Also, other media organizations should follow suit by creating equivalent programmes.