MEDIATING CIVIL AUTHORITY DISPUTES: A QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF NIGERIAN NEWSPAPERS’ COVERAGE OF THE WIKE–ARMY CONFRONTATION

Abstract

Abstract

This study examined how selected Nigerian newspapers covered the Wike–Army confrontation, focusing on reporting patterns, tone, and framing. Guided by the objectives to analyze media portrayal, tone, framing devices, and variations in coverage across newspapers, the research employed a quantitative content analysis of 128 articles drawn from The Punch, Vanguard, ThisDay, Daily Trust, and The Guardian between November 4 and 25, 2025. Findings indicate that The Punch, Vanguard, and ThisDay provided the highest coverage, reflecting regional editorial priorities and agenda-setting influence. Tone analysis revealed a predominance of negative portrayals toward Wike (56.3%) and more positive or neutral coverage of the naval officer (37.5%), while conflict (68%) and responsibility/accountability (42%) frames dominated reporting. Southern newspapers emphasized conflict and accountability frames, whereas northern-based outlets highlighted legal and institutional perspectives. The study demonstrates that Nigerian newspapers do not merely report events but actively mediate public understanding of civil–military disputes through selective framing, tone, and prominence. These findings confirm the applicability of agenda-setting and framing theories in explaining media influence on public perceptions of governance, authority, and institutional accountability in Nigeria.