The Semantic Implications Of Media Reports On Violence In Nigeria

Abochol, Simon Itine*, Adegboye, Oluseye Olusegun**
* Senior Lecturer, Department of English and Literary Studies, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria.
** Lecturer, Department of Linguistics and African Languages, University of Abuja, Nigeria.
Periodicity:January - March'2015
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jelt.5.1.3134

Abstract

This article is on semantics of words and expressions of various grammatical constructions that make reference to violence as reported in the Nigerian media, particularly, the newspaper where such words and sentences about violence are prominent. Twenty-four (24) headlines/captions on violence were randomly selected from Nigeria dailies for data analysis. Semantic roles were used to analyse the different words and expressions that made up the headlines/captions. Halliday's Scale and Category theory showing how text boundaries can be split have been employed to facilitate the analysis. The items (instruments) used for violence are meant to cause damage, havoc and loss of lives. The events (eventive) of violence are devastating and can enhance more restiveness in any society. The analysis of the data, show that semantic implications for the media, journalists and the Nigerian State is that most of the citizens in the Nigerian state become afraid or worried at the sight of newspaper captions/headlines carrying violent expressions. Also, other people in other countries who read Nigerian dailies carrying violent expressions/words are discouraged to visit Nigeria because of safety concerns. Lastly, certain locations in Nigeria which are prone to violent activities are avoided by both Nigerians and visitors to Nigeria.

Keywords

Violence, Semantics, Media Reports and Nigeria

How to Cite this Article?

Itine, A. S., and Olusegun, A. O. (2015). The Semantic Implications Of Media Reports On Violence In Nigeria. i-manager’s Journal on English Language Teaching, 5(1), 35-44. https://doi.org/10.26634/jelt.5.1.3134

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