PUBLIC OPINION

Public opinion can be defined as the expressed views of a large segment of the population on issues that have common interest to them. For example the June 12 election crises in Nigeria are an issue of public opinion. Why some Nigerian want Abiola's mandate to be restore others are against it. The resent increase in the prices of petroleum is also an issue of public opinion. Public opinion does not necessary mean the views of a large segment of the population. It could be the views of a vocal minority.

Agent in the formation of Public Opinion

1. The attitudes of an individual - Individuals have different attitude toward a situation for public opinion to be formed can be individual will first formed an attitudes to an issues by the time the individual make his views known on the issue it becomes an issue of the public opinion this happen mostly with social emits.

2. Mass media: The mass media ie. the television radio, newspaper, magazines are important in the formation of public opinion. It is through the mass media that we get to know issue that would become public opinion.

3. Political parties: Spend huge sum of amount to influence public opinion in the desire direction. This is done in other to ensure the electoral success of the party.

4. Pressure-group:-Pressure group give well organize help to influence public opinion either in favour or against government. For example the Nigeria labour congress may call on workers to embark on a strike in other to influence public opinion against government.

5. Education:-Education is very important in the formation of public opinion. Only a literate society will be able to direct public opinion to achieve a desired objective. In a society where many of the people are uneducated they do not know what is meant by public opinion and as such it cannot be use to achieve any objective.

Measurement of Public Opinion

1. By referendum:- One of the measure uses to measure public opinion is by conducting a referendum. A referendum is an election which is Conducted to decide on a major issue in a state. The electorates are asked to vote Yes or No to determine the issue.

2. By public opinion poll or Random sampling: Public opinion poll or random sampling is another measure to determine public opinion. In public opinion poll a group or cross section of the population are interviewed to know their views on certain issues. The views of the group interviewed is use to represent the view of the entire population.

Importance of Public Opinion

1. It is used to test the legitimacy of government.

2. Public Opinion can be used by government to know what the people want.

3. It can be used to bring about an acceptable way for government to rule the people. Public opinion citizens are indirectly taken part in the political process of the state.