Revisiting Press Freedom in Nigeria: The Buhari Years (2015-2023)

Abstract

Six and half decades after independence, political journalism remains endangered in one of Africa’s largest democracies- Nigeria. The key battle revolved around transparency in public office, its reportage and people’s right to know. This two-pronged study probed press freedom under President Mohammadu Buhari’s watch between 2015 and 2023. Specifically, it examined the political, legal and physical context in which the press operated and explored its consequences, if any, on Nigeria’s democracy. It investigated the power of incumbency against the nuances of a political press. Using the normative theory as its theoretical framework, it adapted Reporters Without Borders’ press freedom indicators for its analysis. Findings reveal an enduring pattern- the political wing of Nigeria’s supposedly liberal, plural and commercial press has become dysfunctional. Its operational context now lies in a highly contested space; shaped by political affiliations, illiberal regulations, state interference and self-censorship. Buhari’s relations with the press reflected his militarist ideology, evoked ethnic tensions; and exposed the impotence of Nigeria’s state agencies. A perilous path lies ahead for press and politics when shackled this way.