What is it about?
This study examined the individual and collective influence of conspiracy theories, misinformation and knowledge revolving around COVID-19, on public adoption of the Nigerian government’s containment policies. The study adopted the Survey, and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) methods. For the survey, a sample of 466 respondents were drawn from Facebook, Instagram, Messenger and WhatsApp, while 24 participants were selected for the FGD. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and thematic approach were used to analyse data generated from the study. Results revealed a COVID-19 conspiratorial thinking among survey respondents and FGD participants, who were also familiar with the orgy of unbridled dissemination of misinformation and conspiracy theories in the social media space. Majority of respondents were knowledgeable about government’s COVID-19 containment policies and were practicing the recommended safety measures. Their decision was influenced by trust in opinion leaders, especially family members and medical experts.
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Why is it important?
This study examines how misinformation and conspiracy theories, which have become threats to society are shaping the adoption of COVID-19 Containment policies in Nigeria.
Perspectives
I loved conducting this study, because it was done at the peak of the Coronavirus pandemic. It was also a great pleasure collaborating with colleagues with whom I have a long standing relationship.
THERESA AMOBI
University of Lagos
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Influence of conspiracy theories, misinformation and knowledge on public adoption of Nigerian government’s COVID-19 containment policies, Journal of African Media Studies, June 2021, Intellect,
DOI: 10.1386/jams_00048_1.
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