CREDIBILITY

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.

In an era dominated by digital communication, the credibility of online sources has become a crucial concern, particularly for journalists who rely heavily on the internet for news gathering and reporting. This study investigates how journalists in Edo State, Nigeria, evaluate and utilize online sources of information in their professional practice. The main objective of the study is to Assess how journalists in Edo State perceive the credibility of online news sources, Identify the factors influencing journalists' perceptions of online source credibility, Assertain the implications of these perceptions on news reporting in Edo State, Evaluate the role of traditional media outlets versus online sources in shaping journalists' news production processes, Investigate the strategies used by journalists in Edo State to verify the credibility of online sources and Examine the extent to which journalist rely on online news sources. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 298 journalists across various media organizations in the state. The findings reveal that while journalists frequently consult online sources due to their speed and accessibility, there is a significant level of skepticism regarding the credibility of such information. Factors such as the reputation of the source, cross- verification with traditional media, and institutional editorial guidelines play a critical role in determining the trustworthiness of online content. The study also highlights challenges such as misinformation, lack of digital literacy, and pressure to meet publication deadlines, which affect how journalists assess online credibility. Based on these findings, the researcher concluded that the research highlights the digital transformation in journalism in Edo State, Nigeria, where online platforms have become essential for news sourcing. While journalists acknowledge the benefits of online sources, they also exercise caution due to concerns about credibility, misinformation, and manipulation. To address these challenges, journalists employ strategic adaptation, combining traditional verification methods with digital tools. The study emphasizes the importance of credible sourcing for maintaining public trust and the need for ongoing training, infrastructure, and institutional support to ensure the integrity of digital journalism. The researcher study recommends continuous training on digital verification techniques, the development of newsroom policies on source evaluation, and increased collaboration with fact- checking organizations.