Ndubuisi Umoro

This study employs a qualitative content analysis methodology to investigate the analysis of deepfake videos on public perception and electoral outcomes during the Edo 2024 Gubernatorial election. Guided by the agenda Setting Theory, Technology determinism Theory, and Perception Theory; the research explores the characteristics, themes, sentiments, and engagement patterns of social media comments on deepfake videos related to the election. Data were collected from major social media platforms such as: Facebook etc. Focusing on videos circulating within Edo State’s digital space. The analysis revealed a high prevalence of politically motivated deepfakes, predominantly centered on Candidate’s integrity and electoral legitimacy, eliciting negative sentiments and skepticism amongst netizens. The findings underscore the potential of deepfakes to distort electoral realities and influence voters’ loyalty; especially amongst less technological aware populations. The study concludes that deepfakes pose significant threats to electoral integrity and democratic processes, necessitating media literacy campaign to enhance netizens’ ability to detect and critically evaluate manipulated content. It is recommended that stakeholders – including policymakers, media practitioners, and social media platforms should collaborate to develop effective strategies for deepfake detection, regulation, and public education to safeguard electoral integrity and promote informed citizen participation.

This study examined the perception of select undergraduate students in Nigeria regarding the broadcast media reportage of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‟s students‟ loan policy. The study adopted the use of survey research method and a total number of (397) three hundred and ninety-seven copies of questionnaire were distributed to Ambrose Alli University and
University of Benin and (376) copies were retrieved and they were all found useful and analyzed through SPSS. The major objective of the study examined the extent to which undergraduate students are exposed to the student loan policy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‟s student loan policy. The findings revealed that over 36% of the respondents have come across the student loan policy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The researcher concluded that most respondents got information about the student loan policy on Channels Television. The research work also revealed that 39% of the respondents disagreed with the
statement that exposure to media report on the student loan policy did not influence their decision to participate in the loan scheme. Due to these findings, the researcher recommends that broadcast media should encourage full reportage of the student loan policy and ensure that there is a complete dissemination of information to the general public for better
understanding to prevail.

This study explored the attitudes and knowledge of Benin residents towards the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities of the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) in the Niger Delta region. The Niger Delta, rich in oil resources, has been subjected to environmental degradation and social issues due to oil exploration and production activities. The NPDC, as a major player in the region, has implemented various Corporate social responsibility initiatives aimed at addressing community needs and fostering sustainable development. This research employs surveys in gathering data on the perceptions of Benin residents towards NPDC's CSR activities. Findings suggest a varied understanding and perception of NPDC's CSR efforts, influenced by factors such as awareness, socio-economic status, and direct engagement with the company. While some residents appreciate the tangible benefits brought about by NPDC's initiatives, others express skepticism and dissatisfaction, citing issues of transparency, accountability, and the adequacy of CSR interventions. The study underscores the importance of effective communication, community participation, and stakeholder engagement in enhancing the effectiveness and acceptance of CSR initiatives in oil-producing regions like the Niger Delta. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher recommended among other things that NPDC and other stakeholders should improve CSR practices and foster positive relationships with host communities for sustainable development