"SELECT PRINT MEDIA COVERAGE ON OBASEKI AND PHILIP SHAIBU CRISES A CASE STUDY OF PUNCH AND GUARDIAN NEWSPAPERS"

This study examines the print media coverage of the political crisis between Governor Godwin Obaseki and his former deputy, Philip Shaibu, using Punch and The Guardian newspapers as case studies. The objectives were to identify the frequency of coverage, dominant frames, tone of reportage, and prominence given to the crisis. The study adopted content analysis, analysing selected news stories, features, and editorials published between January 2023 and December 2024. Findings show that both newspapers gave significant attention to the crisis, with Punch providing more critical and conflict-driven headlines, while The Guardian adopted a more neutral and analytical approach. The coverage largely framed the dispute as a political power struggle linked to succession interests in Edo State. The newspapers also tended to highlight implications for governance and party unity. The study concludes that print media play an agenda-setting role in shaping public opinion on political conflicts. It recommends balanced reporting, increased investigative journalism, and avoidance of sensationalism to ensure responsible media practice.