2026/02/13 by Kemi Busari · 1 voice
Arts and Humanities · Psychology · Social Sciences · #Humor Studies and Applications #Media Influence and Health #Media Studies and Communication
paper · doi:10.1080/23736992.2026.2630631
openalex publication_date 2026/02/13 · openalex created_date 2026/02/15 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/14
This study uses intermedia agenda-setting theory as a critical lens to examine how a satirical news article from World News Daily Report (WNDR) infiltrated Nigerian media and political discourse as genuine news. Through a critical textual analysis of the coverage, the study found that the originating satirical article fooled news outlets and politicians by its employment of fabricated details – such as names, locations, and quotes – combined with a journalistic tone, structure, and the inclusion of a local source. The failure of Nigerian media outlets to engage in basic verification and additional reporting contributed significantly to the satire’s widespread acceptance, perceived credibility, and reproduction as factual news. These findings raise important questions about the ethical and professional lapses within Nigerian journalism that enabled the story’s traction, satire’s agenda-setting potential, and the place of satire as protected speech.