INFLUENCE OF SOLID FM RADIO PROGRAMME ON POLITICAL MOBILIZATION OF ELECTORATES IN ENUGU EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA DURING THE 2023 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION.

ABSTRACT This study examined the impact of Solid FM radio on political mobilisation among the electorate in Enugu East Local Government Area during the 2023 presidential election. The primary objective was to examine the relationship between radio broadcasting exposure and key democratic participation outcomes, including exposure levels, voter awareness, political consciousness, electoral participation, and decision-making processes. Data was collected from 384 eligible voters in Enugu East LGA using a structured questionnaire. The study employed a descriptive survey design anchored on the Agenda-Setting Theory and Uses and Gratifications Theory. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, primarily frequencies, percentages, and means. The findings revealed substantial exposure to Solid FM's political programs (77% frequent listeners), significant impact on voter awareness (79% reported increased electoral knowledge), and meaningful influence on political participation (80% acknowledged voting encouragement). The study also identified manageable operational challenges, with 83% of respondents recommending the station as a credible source for future elections. However, the research found that while radio significantly contributes to voter education and participation encouragement, its influence on specific candidate selection remains balanced and ethical, suggesting responsible journalism practices. The study concluded that radio broadcasting remains an effective tool for democratic mobilisation in Nigeria, but requires attention to technical infrastructure and content quality enhancement. Based on the findings, it is recommended that Solid FM should enhance programming quality, address technical challenges, expand demographic reach, and strengthen editorial standards to maximise its democratic mobilisation impact.