Assessment of The Impact of Hot 99.5 Fm's “People's Assembly” Programme on The Campaign Against Open Defecation Practices Among Residents of Owerri Municipal

Abstract

This study examined the Hot 99.5 Fm “People's Assembly” programme's campaigns against open defecation among residents of Owerri Municipal.  This study was anchored on the theory of planned behaviour and reasoned action. A survey research approach was adopted in this study. A sample of 384 was determined using the Australian Online calculator. A multi-stage sampling technique was adopted in this study. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The instrument was validated, and a correlation coefficient of .913 was obtained. The data obtained were analysed and presented as simple percentages and mean scores in tables. The study's hypotheses were tested using a correlation coefficient. Findings showed that: Owerri Municipal residents' level of awareness of the campaign against open defecation through Hot 99.5 Fm “People's Assembly” programme is high. Owerri Municipal residents' perception of Hot 99.5 Fm “People's Assembly” programme on the campaign against open defecation is satisfactory at an average mean score of 1.92; and Hot 99.5 Fm “People's Assembly” programme on the campaign significantly influenced Owerri residents' attitude towards stopping open defecation practices. The study also found a strong, positive relationship between citizens' perceptions and the inclination to eliminate open defecation in Nigeria. Also, radio messages significantly influence citizens' attitudes toward ending open defecation. The researchers recommended incorporating a multi-dimensional communication approach into the campaign, as it will allow the integration of other channels in the campaign against open defecation.