Abstract

The spread of fake news in the digital age demonstrates the erosion of long-standing institutional barriers against misinformation. Because of the internet, many of the barriers to news dissemination have been lifted. This allows outlets which do not follow these media norms to compete more effectively online than they might be able to compete outside. This has aided in the collapse of traditional news organizations that formerly enjoyed considerable public trust and respect. The public's trust in the media has decreased, causing widespread anxiety. However, little is understood about fundamental issues such as individuals, institutions, and society to manipulations by malicious actors. This qualitative study derives from the documentary method of data collection examines Nigerian government officials’ media statements on fuel subsidy removal and the role of propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation in the era of digital media, and their implications for long-term national development, using the social responsibility theoretical framework as a guide. The paper suggests that fact-checking tools be used in Nigeria to minimize hate speech, dissemination of doubtful campaign claims, and serve as a viable tool for deepening democracy.

Key Words: Digital Media, Disinformation, Misinformation, National Development, Propaganda

About the Authors

*    Adesegun Samson Adetola ORCID ID: 0000-0001-7753-616X, is a doctoral student of Mass Communication at Babcock University, Ilishan–Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria, and an academic technologist in the Media/Farm Broadcast Unit of National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. He has keen interest in development communication, media studies, digital marketing, public relations, advertising, and journalism.

** Abiola Idowu Akinkugbe is a doctoral student of Mass Communication at Babcock University, Ilishan–Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria, and a Senior Lecturer in Faculty of Communication and Liberal Studies, Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Ikorodu, Nigeria. Her research interest is in language development, broadcasting, media studies, and development communication.

^JCMR Journal of Communication and Media Research, Vol. 15, No. 1, Special Issue 3, July 2023, pp. 175-181

© Association of Media and Communication Researchers of Nigeria (AMCRON).

Article Citation

Adetola, A. S. & Akinkugbe, A. I. (2023). Analysis of Nigerian government officials’ media statements on fuel subsidy removal during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Journal of Communication and Media Research, 15 (1, SP.3): 175-181.

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