A Perceptual Analysis of Communication and Natural Disasters Awareness across Communities in Edo North Senatorial District of Edo State

Abstract

This study is designed to access communication and natural disasters awareness in Edo North Senatorial District of Edo State with emphasis on erosion and flooding issues in communities in the senatorial district. The study examined the information channels available to the people, especially on erosion and flooding control, and to know their perception towards these natural or man-made disasters. This objective of the study stems from the dangerous effects of erosion and flooding in Edo North and the perceived nonchalant attitude of the people towards their environment. Anchored on the survey method, the population of the study includes three hundred and thirty (330) residents spread across the local governments in Edo North Senatorial district of Edo State. The respondents were selected based on their residential status and without recourse to any particular demographic variable. The study recommends that even though the study found out that there is a good knowledge of what natural disaster means among the residents studied, it is important to recommend that the media in collaboration with various government agencies, especially the metrological agency to issue early warnings to residents in flood-prone areas as this will enable them to prepare ahead. It is also recommended that the mass media help in packaging messages on disaster awareness in the local dialect of the people, especially on the radio as this will help the people to understand the situations better and react where necessary. Even in print, some of the posters and handbills should be written in the local language of the people and pictures taken from their immediate environment used as a reminder to them of the reality of the danger their environment faces. Keywords: Natural Disasters, Awareness, Erosion, Flooding, Communication DOI: 10.7176/DCS/10-11-02 Publication date: November 30 th 2020