MASS MEDIA AND THE MANAGEMENT OF HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES IN NIGERIA
ABSTRACT From all indications, it has become obvious that the mass media has a great role to play in the management of human rights abuse in Nigeria, taking into cognizance their role in the society which includes surveillance of the society, correlation of the various ideas and transmission of the various interplay of ideas amongst the different segment of society. This is where the mass media’s role comes into play. In that they (populace ) are better enlightened about their rights and privileges as citizens of Nigeria; so that as a people they can ultimately know what ought to be and what ought not to be. And the government also will be better positioned to its roles as custodian of the people as government is meant for the benefit of the greater good of the people, that is respecting the rights and liberties of individuals as citizens of this great country Nigeria. Unless and except the mass media lives up to its responsibilities, it cannot and will not be an effective tool in the management of human right abuse in Nigeria. Finally, we acknowledge the contribution and understanding of the members of the group, working together has been a wonderful experience and for every other perso who contributed one way or other, God bless you all. Amen. CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY The political entity called Nigeria has continued since independence under one form to the other. Especially with military rulers who have had to be rule through decrees thus suspending the constitution that guarantees the citizenry their fundamental human rights. It there makes it obvious that the basis for government, which is for the ultimate good of the people, is defeated when their rights are not guaranteed. And indeed authoritarian rule has not helped human right issues, as abuse has been recorded time and again even in the mass media bizarre manner.…