Examining perceptions of Kwande residents on traditional songs aired on Ashiwaves radio station for curbing the COVID-19 pandemic in Benue State

Terwanger Daniel  Aliough; Iliya Jeremiah  Ovey; Eric Msughter  Aondover

doi:10.59400/ephr.v1i1.1448

Terwanger Daniel Aliough Mass Communication Department, Nasarawa State University, Keffi 950001, Nigeria
Iliya Jeremiah Ovey Mass Communication Department, Nasarawa State University, Keffi 950001, Nigeria
Eric Msughter Aondover Department of Mass Communication, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos 100001, Nigeria

Article ID: 1448

135 Views, 67 PDF Downloads

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59400/ephr.v1i1.1448

Keywords: traditional songs; COVID-19; information; education; Kwande

Abstract

Traditional songs are useful in mobilising natives for genuine causes that promote the wellbeing of society, especially when the issue is life-threatening. This research was carried out to ascertain how traditional songs were used on Ashiwaves FM to curb the COVID-19 pandemic among Kwande residents in Benue State. The research adopted a survey method that relied on a questionnaire that was administered to 400 respondents using the Taro Yamane statistical formula. The theories used to anchor the research were Uses and Gratification and Agenda Setting, which explained how Kwande residents satisfied their need for deriving information and education on how to avoid contracting COVID-19 and how Ashiwaves Radio station repeatedly played traditional songs specifically meant for sensitising the public on the coronavirus, prompting people to think about it. Findings of the study revealed that Ashiwaves Radio station played traditional songs on their station (100%), which was useful in sensitizing Kwande residents to curb the spread of the pandemic. It was also discovered from the findings that the song by Rapizo (98%) was the most instrumental in educating Kwande residents to stay at home and avoid crowded areas (40%), wash their hands (24%), and maintain social distance (14%). The research concluded that traditional songs are essential to every ethnic group in carrying out sensitisation on health issues. Therefore, it is recommended that other ethnic groups in Nigeria also encourage their indigenous artists to compose songs that can be used for educating their locals in the wake of future health challenges to avert casualties.

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