Public Perception of Media Reportage of the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from January to March 2025

The study was an investigation into Public perception of media reportage of the 10th senate of the federal republic of Nigeria from January to March 2025. This study examines the impact of media reportage on public perception of the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria between January and March 2025. It explores the nature and tone of media coverage, public assessment of its accuracy and fairness, factors influencing trust in media reports, the influence of reportage on public support for the Senate, and suggested improvements to media practices. Guided by Framing Theory, the study adopts a descriptive survey design combining content analysis of selected media reports and the administration of structured questionnaires to 200 respondents across four major Nigerian cities. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that media coverage of the Senate during the study period was predominantly negative in tore, with a significant portion of the public perceiving th^ reports as biased or inaccurate. Key factors influencing public trust included media source credibility, perceived political bias, and the transparency of Senate proceedings. Media framing of legislative actions significantly shaped public attitudes, often reducing trust and support for the Senate. Respondents advocated for more objective reporting, reduced sensationalism, and greater reliance on investigative journalism. The study concludes that media framing plays a critical role in shaping public perception of legislative institutions and recommends measures to improve reporting practices, enhance Senate transparency, and strengthen media literacy. The research contributes to understanding the media-democracy nexus in Nigeria and provides practical insights for journalists, policymakers, and civil society actors seeking to foster informed public discourse on governance.