AUDIENCE PERCEPTION OF THE CREDIBILITY OF SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS AS SOURCE OF BREAKING NEWS STORIES IN BENINCITY

This study examined the audience perception of the credibility of social media platforms as sources of breaking news stories in Benin City. The increasing use of social media platforms for accessing and disseminating breaking news has raised concerns regarding the credibility of information shared through these channels. The study sought to determine whether social media platforms are perceived as credible sources of breaking news, identify the social media platform considered most credible by audiences, and ascertain the categories of information often regarded as less credible on social media platforms. The study adopted the survey research design. The population comprised residents of Benin City, while a sample size of 287 respondents was selected for the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using frequency counts and simple percentages. The theoretical foundation of the study was anchored on the Source Credibility Theory, which explains how audiences evaluate the trustworthiness and expertise of information sources before accepting messages as credible. Findings revealed that social media platforms have become major sources of breaking news among audiences in Benin City. The study found that a majority of respondents perceived social media platforms as credible sources of breaking news stories due to their speed, accessibility, and ability to provide real-time updates. However, respondents also expressed concerns regarding the accuracy of information circulated on these platforms, with many indicating that they verify information before believing or sharing it. The findings further revealed that X (formerly Twitter) was perceived as the most credible social media platform for breaking news, while celebrity and entertainment news, as well as political and election-related news, were regarded as the least credible categories of information. The study also established that recognised news organisations, verified accounts, corroboration from multiple sources, and supporting visual evidence significantly influence audience perceptions of credibility. The study concludes that although social media platforms are generally perceived as credible sources of breaking news stories, their credibility remains conditional upon the reliability of the source, the accuracy of information provided, and the verification practices adopted by users. The study recommends increased media literacy, stronger fact-checking mechanisms, improved content moderation by social media companies, and greater public awareness regarding the verification of online information.