Media Role in the Fight against Child Right Violations: A Study of Glory FM and Do-Foundation in Yenagoa LGA, Bayelsa State

Abstract:

This study examined the role of the media in combating child rights violations in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, with particular focus on the activities of Do Foundation and the contributions of Glory FM Yenagoa. The study was guided by three objectives, which were to examine the extent to which Glory FM creates awareness about child rights and child rights violations, determine the role of media programmes and campaigns in supporting the advocacy activities of Do Foundation, and assess the effectiveness of media coverage in influencing public attitudes and responses toward child rights protection. The study adopted a quantitative research design, using a structured online questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. The population comprised residents of Yenagoa,which is 352,285 according to 2006 Census figure, projected at 579,235 at 2.52% growth rate in 2026, while the sample size was determined using Krejcie and Morgan formula. Purposive sampling was employed in selecting respondents who were considered relevant to the study. A total of 384 questionnaires were administered online, out of which 340 were properly completed and used for analysis. Data were analysed using frequency counts and simple percentages. The findings revealed that Glory FM Yenagoa plays an important role in creating awareness about child rights and child rights violations, with respondents acknowledging radio as an effective medium for child rights awareness. The study also found that media programmes and campaigns support the advocacy activities of Do Foundation by increasing public awareness and strengthening child rights advocacy. Furthermore, the findings indicated that media coverage influences public attitudes and responses toward child rights protection by encouraging the reporting of child abuse and reducing tolerance for child rights violations. The study concludes that the media remains an important instrument for child rights advocacy and public enlightenment in Yenagoa. It recommends that Glory FM should increase child rights awareness programmes, while stronger collaboration between media organizations and Do Foundation should be encouraged to improve advocacy efforts and promote effective protection of children's rights.