Framing of Child’s Molestation in Nigerian Newspapers: a Case Study of the Punch and the Guardian Newspapers from July 2024 – December 2024

The need to evaluate how Nigerian newspapers report sensitive social issues such as child molestation provided the rationale for this study. The media plays a pivotal role in shaping public awareness, influencing societal attitudes, and driving advocacy on issues affecting children. This study investigates newspaper reportage of child molestation in Nigeria, focusing on The Punch and The Guardian over a six-month period. Guided by framing theory, the study examined selected editions of the two newspapers, with relevant reports purposively analyzed. The findings revealed that both newspapers consistently reported on cases of child molestation, though the extent and depth of coverage varied. Analysis of story placement showed that while reports occasionally appeared on the front page, the majority were relegated to the inside pages, reflecting moderate editorial prioritization. In terms of content, straight news dominated coverage, while interpretive formats such as columns and features were less prominent. The tone of coverage largely reflected a condemnatory stance, framing child molestation as a serious social problem. The study concluded that while Nigerian newspapers provided substantial coverage, the prioritization and advocacy elements remained limited. It therefore recommended that newspapers adopt more proactive, sustained, and advocacy-driven reportage on child protection to foster stronger public engagement and accountability.