The Media

In every democracy, a free press constitutes a major force through which transparency (a major principle of democracy) is facilitated. Since elected representatives at all levels might not be able to reach out to those that they represent individually, the media function as a bridge that allows for an unbroken communication between the electorate and their representatives. In Nigeria, we have seen the power of the media at various times, especially during the bloody days of military autocracy. We have also seen its positive manifestations since the transition to democracy in 1999. We cannot overemphasize the role of the media in sourcing and delivering information to the public so the government is commended or held accountable where appropriate. We encourage citizens to see the great value the media bring to democracy.

Since transitioning to democracy, we have particularly witnessed various cases of physical attack on journalists through a misuse of the nation’s security apparatus and through political sponsorship of thugs. If these trends must stop, then the citizens must be willing to stand up for the law-abiding journalists either via on-the-ground protests or social media protests. We also wish to call attention of Nigerians to citizen journalism platforms that are now being offered by such media organizations as Sahara Reporters, Premium Times, and Channels Television, among others. These organizations invite the citizens to report news or air their views (through feature articles) on issues that affect their communities. While we emphasize the need for a legitimate and responsible citizen journalism (the kind that reports what it knows to be the truth), we encourage Nigerians to see this as an opportunity to actively engage their leaders and the general public on policies of the state. Citizens should actively leverage this opportunity, together with social media, to enhance their engagement in political and social discourse and to supplement their role as vanguards of our democracy. As in all democracies, the destiny of Nigeria is in the hands of its people. Our public service publications translated in local languages and distributed across the country will greatly enhance this effort.