Investigative Journalism in Nigeria: The Press and Responsible Governance

Abstract

For about 50 years now–with a modest reference to the independence era–Nigeria has been struggling to deal with many social, political, and economic problems. On several occasions, the Nigerian presses have been called in to fulfil social obligations, help promote good governance and protect democracy. During the era of unfortunate military junta for instance, the mass media were on hand to challenge the aberration. The press also helped in truncating President Obasanjo's third term bid. Currently, the media have an eye on all tiers of governance. The press monitor the activities of the Bureau for Public Enterprise as it conducts bids for sale, etc. In recent time, the press have monitored activities of NNPC and major oil players and gave adequate coverage to subsidy probe. This paper x-rays how the press have combined social responsibility with other economic and political interests in Nigeria. The paper made recommendation for continued responsible press.