Media Coverage of Niger Delta Crisis: a Case Study of Delta Broadcasting Service Warri, Delta State and the Vanguard Newspaper 2006-2009

Student: ERHOVWO BERNARD ASHESHE (Project, 2025)
Department of History and International Studies
University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State

Abstract

This study provides a comparative analysis of the media coverage of the Niger Delta crisis militancy between 2006 and 2009, focusing on the differences between a private media outlet, the Vanguard Newspaper, and a public media outlet, the Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) Warri. The research examines how each medium framed the crisis, the roles they adopted, and the challenges they faced. Findings indicate that Vanguard Newspaper excelled in in-depth, balanced, and investigative reporting, successfully amplifying the region's grievances and influencing policy. Conversely, DBS Warri provided essential locally focused coverage despite facing significant security threats and operational constraints inherent to a state-owned media operating in the conflict's hotbed. The work highlights the crucial role of both media types in shaping public perception and policy, advocating for responsible, accurate, and ethical reporting in conflict resolution.

Keywords
Niger Delta Crisis Media Coverage Militancy Vanguard Newspaper Delta Broadcasting Service Public Media Private Media Conflict Reporting Nigeria Warri
Filters
Institutions