Audience Exposure, Engagement, and Perceived Credibility of the Ask the Commissioner Radio Programme on ABS 88.5 FM

This study examined audience exposure to, engagement with, and perceived credibility of the Ask the Commissioner programme broadcast on ABS 88.5 FM among residents of Awka Metropolis, Anambra State. The study was anchored on the Democratic Participant Theory and the Source Credibility Theory, which explain citizens' participation in public communication and the influence of perceived source credibility on audience responses. A quantitative survey research design was adopted. Using the sample size recommendation of Comrey and Lee (1992), a purposive sample of 200 residents of Awka Metropolis was selected for the study. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings revealed a moderate level of audience exposure, indicating that although many respondents were aware of the programme, few listened to it regularly. The study also found a low level of audience engagement, as most respondents rarely participated through phone calls, text messages, or social media platforms. In addition, the programme recorded low perceived credibility, with many respondents viewing it as a government public relations platform rather than an objective forum for discussing governance issues. The study concludes that, despite providing opportunities for interaction, the programme has not effectively promoted meaningful public participation or strengthened citizens' trust in government communication. It recommends that ABS 88.5 FM and the Anambra State Ministry of Information redesign the programme to make it more audience-centred and participatory. The study further recommends increasing opportunities for listener contributions, providing regular feedback on issues raised by participants, and involving independent experts, civil society organisations, and ordinary citizens in discussions to enhance transparency, balance, and public confidence.