Journalism Ethics and Audience Perception of News Blogs (a Study of Ikot Ekpene L.g.a)

The aim of this research was to examine journalism ethics and audience perception of news blogs, a study of Ikot Ekpene L.G.A.The study adopted the survey research design and had the following objectives among others; to determine the extent audience of Ikot Ekpene are exposed to news blogs, find out the extent of Ikot Ekpene audience awareness of journalism standard. To achieve these objectives, the study used the Agenda-Setting and Uses and Gratification theories which served as the theoretical framework of the study. Through the cluster sampling procedure a sample size of 300 was drawn from the population. The questionnaire was used as data collection instrument. After a careful study, findings revealed that; Majority of the audience access news blogs regularly, with high levels of exposure primarily through mobile device, the audience in Ikot Ekpene are aware of journalism ethical standards, with some reporting a high level awareness, and a significant portion of respondents perceive news blogs as less credible than traditional news sources. It was concluded that consistent application of journalism ethics in news blogging can promote audience satisfaction and foster a more informed public. Hence, it was recommended among others that News blogs should prioritize accuracy and credibility to address audience scepticism.