Newspaper Coverage of the 2024 Gubernatorial Election in Ondo State: a Content Analysis of the Punch and the Guardian Newspapers

ABSTRACT Newspapers play a central role in shaping public perception during elections, influencing voter awareness, attitudes, and decision-making. In Nigeria, gubernatorial elections are critical in determining state leadership, yet media coverage is often skewed towards prominent candidates, raising concerns about fairness and inclusivity. This study examines how The Punch and The Guardian newspapers covered the 2024 Ondo State gubernatorial election, focusing on the extent, prominence, placement, and tone of reports on political candidates. The research is anchored on Framing Theory and Agenda-Setting Theory. A quantitative content analysis was conducted using purposively selected editions of The Punch and The Guardian, covering the election period between August and November 2024. A total of 104 editions were analysed with a coding sheet serving as the main research instrument. The findings revealed disproportionate coverage, with front-running candidates such as Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and Alfred Agboola Ajayi receiving extensive attention, while other candidates were marginalised. Coverage was influenced by selective reporting tendencies and ownership interests, resulting in limited inclusivity. The study recommends that Nigerian newspapers adopt more balanced and inclusive reporting practices during elections to give equitable visibility to all candidates. This will strengthen public trust, enhance democratic engagement, and ensure fairer media representation in future electoral processes.