Influence of Radio Messages on Security Alertness among Residents of Bayelsa East Senatorial District

Abstract

Purpose: The study assesses the influence of radio messages on security alertness among residents of Bayelsa East Senatorial District, investigating whether these messages effectively foster security consciousness in a region prone to kidnapping, sea piracy, and election-related violence. Methodology: A survey research design was adopted, utilizing a sample size of 384 residents selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a quantitative questionnaire and analyzed with simple frequencies and percentages to determine exposure levels and behavioral influence. Results: Findings reveal that exposure to security alertness messages is low, with 51.5% of respondents reporting no exposure and 36.6% hearing messages only once a week. Furthermore, 65% of residents were not influenced by these radio messages, as they prioritised political and community development programmes over security-related broadcasts. Conclusion: The study concludes that the influence of radio on security alertness in the district is weak. It recommends that the state government partner with media outfits to increase the frequency of qualitative, persuasive, and simple security messages to enhance public vigilance.