MISINFORMATION AND PUBLIC RESPONSES TO SOCIAL MEDIA MESSAGES ON OUTBREAK OF CHOLERA AMONG RESIDENTS OF MAKURDI METROPOLIS

This study investigated audience perception of social media platforms as credible sources for breaking news in Benue State. The study was anchored on source credibility theory. In line with the above, survey research design was used while questionnaire was adopted to collect primary data from 400 respondents. Findings from the study showed that the public access breaking news through Twitter, further establishing its prominence in this area. Findings further showed that the public relies on growing importance of social media in the dissemination of real time information. The study concluded that the increasing reliance of the public on social media for real-time information dissemination, illustrating the growing importance of these platforms in contemporary news consumption. The study recommended that media organizations and news outlets should invest in high-quality visual content, including images, videos, and infographics. This not only improves the audience's engagement but also enhances the credibility and perceived reliability of the news being shared on social media platforms.