Rhetorical Strategies in Editorials on Kidnapping in Selected Nigerian Newspapers

This study addressed a research gap in the analysis of rhetorical
strategies employed in Nigerian newspaper editorials on kidnapping, a
pressing socio-political issue. The primary objectives were to identify
and examine the predominant rhetorical strategies used, assess their
distribution across selected newspapers, and evaluate their
effectiveness in shaping public discourse. A qualitative research design
was adopted, analysing editorials from four major Nigerian
newspapers. The study found that Ethos was the most frequently used
strategy, reflecting a strong reliance on credibility and ethical appeals.
Logos closely followed, indicating the use of logical arguments and
factual evidence, while Pathos, though less frequent, was employed to
evoke emotional responses. The study also revealed variations in
strategy use across different newspapers, suggesting editorial styles
and target audiences influenced rhetorical choices. The study
concluded that editorial writers strategically combined these rhetorical
approaches to engage readers and influence opinion on kidnapping
issues. This study contributes new knowledge providing, a detailed
understanding of how Nigerian editorial writers construct persuasive
arguments in the context of national security challenges, bridging a
significant gap in media rhetoric research in Nigeria. This research
provides a foundation for further studies on media influence in socio-political advocacy and contributes to the broader discourse on the role
of rhetoric in journalism.