International Journal of Academic Management Science Research (IJAMSR)   Year: 2022 | Volume: 6 | Issue: 7 | Page No.: 9-19 Publics' Perception of the Role of Social Media on Covid-19 Conspiracy Theories and Science Download PDF Olagoke Olawale Israel, Olatunji Olusoji Samson, Adunola Nojeem Omotayo Abstract: This study examined public perception of the role of social media on COVID-19 conspiracy theory and science focusing on Akure South Local Government. The objectives of the study is to examine public awareness of COVID-19 conspiracy theories; to determine public knowledge on the role of social media on COVID-19 conspiracy theories; and to ascertain impact of the role of social media in covid-19 conspiracy theories on the public about vaccination. The research adopted quantitative research method with the use of survey design. A sample size of 425 was selected through Relief Application sample size calculator with a confidence level of 95% and a precision rate of 0.05 out of a population of 130,765 according to the 2006 population census. However, 15% (62) of the sample size was used for the study due to low response encountered using online questionnaire. The study used online questionnaire for data collection through googleform. The online questionnaire was administered on residents of Akure South via whatsapp. Data gathered was analysed in simple frequency and percentage distribution table. Results then revealed that the public awareness level of COVID-19 conspiracy theories is very high; the public have knowledge on the role of social media in COVID-19 conspiracy theories; and that the role of social media in conspiracy theories about COVID-19 does not negatively impact the public about vaccination. Study then recommended that government should strive to build public trust as this will go a long way in disabusing the minds of the public even as the social media is feeding them with lies and conspiracies; and that there is need for government to regulate the social media so as to prevent continuous spread and dissemination of conspiracies particularly in situations of pandemic or epidemic diseases which may have serious consequence on national advancement.