ATTITUDE OF RESIDENTS OF ABAK TOWARDS RADIO CAMPAIGNS AGAINST CULTISM

This study was conducted to investigate the attitude of Abak residents towards radio campaigns on cultism. The objectives of the study included; to examine the exposure level of Abak residents to anti-cultism campaigns on radio, find out whether the residents of Abak are responsive to anti-cultism campaigns on radio; to determine whether anti-cultism campaigns on radio have influenced Abak residents positively and to ascertain factors that inhibit radio influence on combating cultism in Abak local Government Area. Based on the above, survey research method was utilised and questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Social Responsibility and Agenda Setting theories were adopted and purposive sampling technique was used in selecting respondents for the study. The population of the study was 245,516, with a sample of 384 respondents drawn from Philip Meyer 2010 guide. Findings showed that the respondents were exposed to anti-cultism campaigns on radio in Abak Local Government Area .The Study also revealed that respondents were strongly responsive to anti-cultism campaigns on radio. Findings further showed that all agreed that anti-cultism campaigns on radio have influenced residents of Abak positively, as it has discouraged them from associating or joining cult activities. Findings further revealed that peer group pressure and cultural practices do inhibit the effectiveness of anti-cultism campaigns on radio. The researcher therefore recommended that there should be collaboration between radio stations, schools, religious institutions, and community groups to amplify the reach and impact of the campaigns. To sustain and deepen residents' responsiveness, it is recommended that stakeholders intensify the use of radio for anti-cultism campaigns by incorporating culturally relevant messages and interactive programs, such as call-in sessions and testimonials.