Newspaper Coverage of the 2019 Jukun–Tiv Conflict and Its Implications for Peace-building in Nigeria
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Abstract
Media coverage of ethno-communal conflicts in Nigeria is often criticised for escalating tensions rather than supporting peace-building, yet systematic evidence from the Tiv–Jukun conflict remains limited despite its recurrence. This study addresses this gap by analysing newspaper coverage of the 2019 Jukun–Tiv conflict in Taraba State. Guided by Framing Theory, the study examined how selected Nigerian newspapers reported the 2019 Tiv–Jukun communal conflict. A quantitative content analysis was conducted on 1,305 weekday editions of Daily Trust, Vanguard, and Taraba Truth and Fact published between September 2019 and April 2020. A structured coding scheme was used to analyse frames, tone and language, and patterns of bias, with inter-coder reliability established through percentage agreement. The findings reveal a dominance of conflict-centred frames emphasising violence, casualties, and ethnic confrontation, accompanied by emotive and sensational language. Limited instances of balanced and peace-oriented reporting were identified, mainly in the local newspaper. The findings suggest that prevailing reporting practices constrain the media’s peace-building role by reinforcing polarised narratives. The study recommends greater use of peace-oriented frames, neutral and context-rich language, and stricter editorial guidelines to promote conflict-sensitive journalism in divided societies.
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