In any democracy, the media serves as both a watchdog and a voice for the people.

However, in Nigeria, the balance between press freedom and journalistic responsibility continues to ignite serious debate.

Nigeria ranks 112th on the 2024 World Press Freedom Index, reflecting the challenging environment in which journalists operate.

In 2024 alone, security agencies were responsible for 45 out of 69 documented attacks on journalists, accounting for approximately 65 per cent of these incidents.

Moreover, between July and October 2024, 90 cases of press violations were reported, underscoring the worrisome rise in press freedom violations, and attributed to state actors.

In spite amendments to the Cybercrime Act, the law continues to be used to intimidate journalists.

In February 2024, for instance, four journalists were charged under this Act for reporting on alleged financial mismanagement at Kwara State Polytechnic.

Furthermore, the persistent practice of “brown envelope journalism”, where some journalists accept monetary inducements for favourable coverage remains widespread.

Stakeholders believe that this unethical practice undermines journalistic integrity, often attributed to low remuneration and delayed salaries.

Government censorship further exacerbates the situation.

In May 2024, authorities banned the broadcast of a song critical of President Bola Tinubu, citing a violation of public decency.

This action was condemned by human rights organisations as an abuse of power and a violation of artistic freedom.

Albeit these challenges, journalists continue to play an important role in holding those in power to account.

One widely cited expert on irresponsible journalism is Prof. Wole Soyinka, Nobel Laureate and media critic, who has repeatedly warned against the dangers of unethical reporting.

In a 2019 public lecture, he stated: “Irresponsible journalism is as dangerous as fake news; it poisons the public mind and erodes trust in institutions”.

He stressed that while press freedom is vital, it must be matched with a commitment to truth, fairness, and public interest.

“Freedom of the press is fundamentally defined as the right to communicate and express ideas through various media, including printed and electronic platforms, without undue government interference.

“However, it is crucial to note that press freedom is not absolute. Just as the law curtails actions like libel and obscenity, it should equally regulate the spread of misinformation”.

The Nigerian Constitution, in Section 22, grants the media the responsibility of holding the government accountable, thus recognising the media as the fourth estate of the realm.

Similarly, Section 39(1) of the Constitution guarantees every individual the right to freedom of expression, including the right to seek, receive, and impart information.

In the U.S, press freedom was enshrined in the First Amendment of the Constitution in 1787.

Nevertheless, this does not mean press freedom is without limits.ERE

For example, the 1990s saw the passing of the Espionage and Sedition Acts, which placed restrictions on freedom of speech.

Additionally, in 1969, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that publications inciting imminent lawless action could be prohibited.

While press freedom is a cornerstone of any democracy, the question must be asked: should press freedom serve as a licence to spread misinformation, disinformation, and falsehoods?

This issue stems from the misconception among some citizen journalists and media outlets that freedom of speech permits the publication of any content, regardless of its credibility or propriety.

This, however, is a misinterpretation of the right.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, recently emphasised that Nigeria, under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, boasts one of the freest press freedoms in its history.

“We have press freedom; it is the responsibility of every government to protect it. However, I must stress that freedom of expression carries enormous responsibility.

“You cannot publish falsehoods and claim to be exercising press freedom. Press freedom is only valid when you speak the truth,” he stated.

He continued, “President Tinubu, as a foremost democrat, is fully committed to safeguarding constitutionally guaranteed rights for all Nigerians.

“He also encourages constructive criticism and healthy opposition, essential for strengthening our democratic framework.

“I reaffirm that President Tinubu’s administration remains dedicated to upholding press freedom and creating an enabling environment for media practice in Nigeria”.

Idris also warned media practitioners to be patriotic, urging them not to cede their platforms to criminals who spread fake news.

“We have a duty to deny them space. All media organisations must refuse to provide a platform for the dissemination of fake news,” he stressed.

“I call on the media to promote media literacy to identify and punish the purveyors of fake news”.

Furthermore, communication experts argue that media spaces should not serve as outlets for fake news and misinformation.

According to them, there are reports of some individuals exploiting press freedom to incite religious, ethnic, or communal conflicts through negative and false reporting.

Corroborating this stance, the Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Communication and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, recently responded to viral fake news about the sacking of three ministers.

“Security agencies must act urgently against fake news websites and platforms, and those who fail to verify the authenticity of stories before allowing them to go viral.

“Press freedom cannot exist when false narratives are concocted without regard for truth”.

The Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Rep. Akintunde Rotimi Jr, has also called for media discipline and regulation.

He noted that the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), in spite being over 70 years old, lacks the capacity to address the spread of fake news among its members.

“There are media practitioners who, consciously, abandon caution and spread fake news,” he added.

Similarly, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council, Dr Dili Ezughah, recently highlighted the theme of the 2025 World Press Freedom Day: “Navigating the AI Frontier: Strengthening Press Freedom in Nigeria’s Digital Transformation”.

According to him, the theme underscores the need to examine how artificial intelligence is reshaping the media landscape and the implications it holds for press freedom in the digital age.

Ezughah acknowledged the vast opportunities AI presents for enhancing investigative journalism, data analysis, and content creation.

However, he stressed the importance of deploying these technologies responsibly, ensuring that human oversight and ethical considerations are at the forefront.

“Journalists must uphold the highest ethical standards and verify all content, particularly in an era where deepfakes and synthetic media can undermine public trust,” he said.

In the same vein, the NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahaya has also emphasised that press freedom is essential for good governance, transparency, and national development.

He called for greater collaboration with both the public and private sectors to strengthen press freedom and uphold the media’s vital role in promoting good governance.

Additionally, NUJ FCT Chairperson, Grace Ike, has reaffirmed that press freedom is a fundamental right, not a privilege.

She praised journalists for their role in society and urged the government to prioritise media workers’ welfare, especially amid insecurity and economic challenges.

Ike also called on journalists to uphold ethical standards, advocate for better working conditions, and continue holding leaders accountable.

According to her, the media must amplify the voices of the vulnerable and defend democratic values.

While countries like Nigeria have laws against libel, hate speech, and cyberbullying to curb misinformation, observers note that no government will tolerate the abuse of press freedom for destructive ends.

They insisted that press freedom must be exercised with responsibility and integrity, cautioning journalists against using it to spread falsehoods or undermine national unity.

Ultimately, a balanced approach is needed, one that safeguards press freedom while promoting ethical journalism in the public interest. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.