Assessing the Credibility of Nigeria’s 2023 Presidential Election Results: an Analysis of Online News Media Perspectives

Student: Titilayo New Adu (Project, 2025)
Department of Communication Studies
Bamidele Olumilua University of Edu. Science and Tech. Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State

Abstract

This study investigates the credibility of Nigeria’s 2023 Presidential Election results as presented by online news media. It examines how different media outlets portrayed the election’s legitimacy, exploring factors that influenced their perspectives and identifying the convergence and divergence in credibility assessments across platforms. The study employs a mixed-methods content analysis approach, analyzing news articles published between February 26 and March 11, 2023, and October 27 to November 9, 2023. The findings show that news outlets featured both credibility indicators (official announcements, INEC statements, and international recognition) and doubt indicators (opposition protests, legal disputes). The research concludes that the media played a crucial role in shaping public perception of the election’s legitimacy, emphasizing the need for balanced, transparent, and accurate reporting to strengthen trust in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Keywords
2023 presidential election Nigeria online news media election credibility media framing public trust electoral integrity INEC communication studies democratic governance
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