CHAPTER ONE: Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

The study examines the press under president Olusegun Obasanjo second term as

president of Nigeria. The study intent to explore the press under former president Olusegun

Obasanjo to produce a final year project. The goal is to find out the issue of the press in Nigeria

during the former president.

The term “Press” refers to the collective term for media organizations and outlets that

disseminate news, information, and opinions to the public. It encompasses print media

(newspapers, magazines), broadcast media (radio, television), online media (websites, blogs,

social media), and other platforms that engage in journalistic activities (Karen D, 1997 P.164).

The work examines the role played by press during the previous government of Olusegun

Obasanjo. The study seeks to analyze the content and coverage of the press state-owned media

outlets such as the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) and Voice of Nigeria (VON) newspaper.

This includes examining the themes, topics, tone, and frequency of coverage related to Olusegun

Obasanjo policies, initiatives, and leadership style. Understanding how the press portrayed key

issues and events during this period is essential for gauging their role in public communication.

The research also determines the importance of understanding the concept of press in

promoting government initiatives, policies, and programs. This involves examining the extent to

which press acted as a platform for official announcements, public awareness campaigns, and

policy advocacy.

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 The study acknowledges the effectiveness of the press in conveying government

messages to diverse audiences within Nigeria. The research intends to gauge public perceptions

and attitudes towards the press during Olusegun Obasanjo tenure. This includes assessing the

public's trust in media, their perception of media objectivity and credibility, and their preferred

sources of information regarding government activities. Understanding public perceptions is

crucial for assessing the impact and relevance of press in shaping public opinion.

Final year research project within the field of Mass Communication hold immense

significant, serving as a platform for students to explore personal interest, apply theoretical

concept and contribute unique insights to the displine. Smith and Johson (2019 P.21) note that

these research endeavors reflect the culmination of Media advocate and bridge the gap between

theoretical knowledge and practice.

Olusegun Obasanjo Nigerian general, statesman, and diplomat, who was the

first military ruler in Africa to hand over power to a civilian government. He served as Nigeria’s

military ruler (1976–79) and, as a civilian, as president (1999–2007). In 1975 Brigadier

General Murtala Ramat Mohammed ousted General Yakubu Gowon, the military head of state at

the time, but announced that he would relinquish power to civilian rule by 1979. The following

year, however, Mohammed was assassinated during an unsuccessful coup attempt, and

leadership passed to Obasanjo, his deputy. During the three years he headed the government,

Obasanjo emerged as an important African statesman and established ties with the United States.

Obasanjo followed his predecessor’s timetable for a return to civilian rule and did not run for

president when elections were held in 1979. Voting was extremely close, but Nigeria’s Federal

Electoral Commission declared Shehu Shagari, from the north, the winner over the strongest

challenger from the south, Obafemi Awolowo, who was a Yoruba. The results were condemned

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by most of Obasanjo’s fellow Yoruba as well as others over allegations that the election had been

rigged, but the outcome was upheld by the Supreme Court, and Obasanjo gained the respect of

the Hausa-Fulani leaders in the north for handing over power to Shagari (Wikipedia.org).

Nigeria’s first civilian leader in 15 years, Obasanjo sought to alleviate poverty, reduce

government corruption, and establish a democratic system. He also pledged to reform the

military and the police. Religious and ethnic strife, however, became a central concern during his

presidency, as incidents of violence mounted and as most Muslim-dominated states in the north

and centre of the country adopted Sharīʿah law. Obasanjo’s harsh response to ethnic strife in the

south earned condemnation. Indeed, his overall authoritative style, the corruption that was still

evident among government officials, and a strong challenger Muhammad Buhari, a northerner

who was a former general and a former military head of state were among the reasons that

Obasanjo faced a shrinking power base heading into the 2003 presidential election, despite

receiving the pragmatic support of leading Yoruba politicians this time around. Still, Obasanjo

was elected to a second term in April 2003, winning more than 60 percent of the votes cast, but,

as with previous elections, there were widespread reports of voting irregularities and allegations

of fraud.

In 2006 Obasanjo came under domestic and international criticism for attempting

to amend the constitution to allow him to stand for a third term as president; the

proposed amendment was rejected by the Senate later that year. With Obasanjo unable to

run, Umaru Yar’Adua was selected to stand as the PDP’s candidate in the April 2007 presidential

election. He was declared the winner, but international observers strongly condemned the

election as being marred by voting irregularities and fraud. Nonetheless, Yar’Adua succeeded

Obasanjo and was sworn in May 29, 2007 (Wikipedia.com).

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 The Nigerian Press has remained a vibrant institution since the 1920s. Beginning with the

emergence of the West African Pilot in 1937, the press has played a pivotal role in promoting

political awareness, sensitising the populace and moulding and directing public opinion (Reuben

Abati, 2020: P.255) Expectedly it was a strong force in the struggle for the attainment of political

independence. Not even the long period of military rule and its attendant risks could deter the

press from playing its ascribed roles. In fact, more than any other period, the press became more

vociferous and even took to guerrilla journalism, a practice of publishing and circulating

newspapers and magazines underground, in order to prosecute a cause that it believed in.

Meanwhile the last two decades or so witnessed tremendous advancement in the spread of the

knowledge of information and communication technology. Virtually every segment of society,

including the press, has been impacted by these developments. Even though the knowledge

spread slowly to, or was latently embraced in Nigeria, its effects have been enormous. Not only

has it quickened information dissemination, it has also revolutionised the conduct, method and

quality of media practices generally.

Beginning from the early 1990s, Africa witnessed a new wave of democratisation,

beginning with the Zambian experience. (Goke, 2021; P.214) Nigeria was not left behind as the

military made some half-hearted efforts to democratise. The Babangida regime (1985-1993)

conceived and ill-implemented is about the most expensive transition programme in the history

of Nigeria. The consistent corruption under this regime led to the distinct emergence or revival

and proliferation of radical and non-conformist newspapers and magazines, which have been

appropriately labelled as the activist press (Nahzeem 2022: p101-120) The activist press is so

called because their emergence, mode of operation and activities went beyond the known and

conventional journalism that existed earlier. Reminiscent of the anticolonial press like the West

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African Pilot, the activist press mounted serious press campaigns on the military and its anti-

democratic tendencies.

Meanwhile, press opposition to militarised democratisation reached its peak during the

dark days of General Sani Abacha (1993-1998). Despite the efforts to suppress it mainly through

proscription of newspapers and magazines as well as clampdown on journalists, the activist press

became more vibrant. It would seem that the revolution in global communication aided

tremendously the ability of the Nigerian press, not only to challenge anti-democratic forces, but

also to pursue democratisation. Apart from speeding up the access which Africans have had to

fast breaking events in other parts of the world, new communication technologies are also

eroding monolithic. information control within Africa, this affect institutions like the Media (that

are not government owned) became better placed not only to counter government propaganda

but also to popularise views previously suppressed. More importantly, with the citizens better

informed, the status quo was challenged while the growing dissent found expression in the

mounting opposition to authoritarian rule.

1.2 Statement of the problem

During President Olusegun Obasanjo's second term as President of Nigeria, several issues

concerning press and media censorship arose. These issues present significant challenges and

raise questions about the state of press, journalism of expression, and governmental control over

the media or newspaer in Nigeria during that period. The extent to which the government under

President Obasanjo restricted or controlled the content and dissemination of information by the

press. This could involve direct censorship, intimidation of press, or other means of exerting

control over media outlets. The level of press journalists had to report on government activities,

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criticize government policies, and investigate matters of public interest without fear of reprisal or

censorship.

Instances of press facing harassment, intimidation, arrest, or other forms of retaliation for

their reporting or expression of dissenting views. Assessment of the legal and regulatory

environment for media operations during President Obasanjo's second term, including laws

governing press of speech, press, and media ownership.

1.3 Objective of the Study

The researcher set out the following objectives for this study.

1. Identify the various issues the press covered under Olusegun Obasanjo.

2. To expose the strengths and weakness of the press under Olusegun Obasanjo.

3. To determine the challenges which the press faced under Olusegun Obasanjo.

1.4 Research Questions

Based on the case study, the following research questions were asked;

1. What were the challenges the press faced under president Obasanjo?

2. What type of issues did the press covered under Olusegun Obasanjo?

3. To determine the level of experience of the press under Olusegun Obasanjo?

1.5 Justification of the study

The justification for this study stems from the critical role that the press plays in

democratic societies, particularly in emerging democracies like Nigeria. During President

Olusegun Obasanjo's second term (2003-2007), the Nigerian media faced numerous challenges

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related to press freedom, censorship, and political influence, making it a significant period for

examining media-government relations. Understanding these dynamics is essential for several

reasons.

Firstly, examining the media's role during this period provides insights into how political

leadership can shape or restrict press freedom. Obasanjo's second term was marked by

controversies and significant political events, including anti-corruption campaigns and political

reforms, which were heavily covered by the media. Analyzing how these events were reported

and the extent of governmental interference offers a clearer picture of the press's ability to act as

a watchdog and the extent to which it was constrained (Dare, 2013).

Secondly, this study contributes to the broader discourse on democratic development by

highlighting how media freedoms are instrumental in ensuring government accountability and

transparency. Research has shown that a robust and independent press is vital for the health of

democracies, as it holds government officials accountable and provides a platform for public

debate (Mbachu, 2019). By focusing on the specific challenges faced during Obasanjo's tenure,

this study adds depth to our understanding of these dynamics in the Nigerian context.

Moreover, the findings can inform contemporary media practices and policy-making.

With ongoing concerns about media freedom in Nigeria, insights from this study can help

journalists, policymakers, and civil society organizations address current issues and advocate for

stronger protections for press freedom. Historical analyses of media-government relations

provide valuable lessons for navigating current challenges and improving media practices

(Iroanya, 2015).

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1.6 Significant of the Study

This study holds significant relevance for several reasons. Firstly, it provides an in-depth

examination of the relationship between the press and the government during President Olusegun

Obasanjo's second term, a pivotal era in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. By focusing on this

period, the study sheds light on how media practices and government policies influenced each

other, which is crucial for understanding the broader dynamics of political communication and

media freedom in Nigeria.

Secondly, the findings of this study have implications for current and future media and

government interactions. Insights gained from this analysis can guide contemporary media

professionals, policymakers, and scholars in addressing issues of press freedom, censorship, and

media bias. The study highlights the challenges faced by the media in maintaining its

independence and credibility while navigating political pressures, offering valuable lessons for

enhancing democratic governance and media integrity.

Additionally, this research contributes to the academic discourse on media studies and

political science by providing a historical perspective on government-media relations. It enriches

the existing literature by documenting the media’s role in shaping public opinion and political

processes during a significant period in Nigerian history. This comprehensive understanding can

help in formulating strategies to safeguard press freedom and ensure that the media continues to

serve as a check on government power.

Furthermore, by evaluating the impact of media coverage on public perception and

political accountability, the study aids in recognizing the role of the press in fostering

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transparency and democratic engagement. The insights derived can support efforts to improve

media practices and promote a more informed and active citizenry, contributing to the overall

strengthening of democratic institutions in Nigeria.

1.7 Scope and Limitation of the study

The scope of this study encompasses the period of President Olusegun Obasanjo's second

term in office, from May 29, 2003, to May 29, 2007, focusing on Nigeria. It will examine major

Nigerian newspapers, magazine, and emerging online news platforms to analyze press freedom,

censorship, and government-press relations during this period. Key themes include significant

political events, policies, and their media coverage, as well as the role of the press in shaping

public opinion. Stakeholders involved are journalists, media houses, government officials, and

the general public, with particular attention to press organizations such as the Nigerian Union of

Journalists (NUJ).

However, the study faces several limitations. Access to certain government documents or

internal communications may be restricted, hindering a deeper understanding of government-

press dynamics. Media reports may exhibit bias, affecting the objectivity of the analysis. The

focus on major media outlets might overlook perspectives from smaller or regional sources. The

retrospective nature of the study relies on historical data, which may be incomplete or skewed

due to the passage of time. Securing interviews with key figures from the period, such as former

government officials or journalists, could prove challenging, limiting firsthand insights.

Additionally, technological constraints, particularly the early stages of digital media during the

study period, may restrict the analysis of online news platforms due to less comprehensive digital

archives.

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1.8 Definitions of Terms

To guard against ambiguity in the meaning of the word and phrases used in the study. The

researcher would like reader to understand the following definition of terms.

1. Press: The term "the press" newspapers and magazines only. The press plays a

crucial role in a democratic society by acting as a watchdog, informing the public,

and facilitating the exchange of ideas.

CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL FRAME WORK

2.1 Introduction

This chapter review the theoretical framework, conceptual review and empirical review

of the research undertaken on the press under Olusegun Obasanjo administration in Nigeria.

The interplay between the media and government in Nigeria has been extensively

analyzed, particularly during President Olusegun Obasanjo's second term (2003-2007). This

period is marked by significant developments in media freedom and governmental control,

offering a rich context for understanding media-government dynamics.

Media Freedom and Government Censorship, The Nigerian media has historically

grappled with issues of censorship and governmental interference. Akinfeleye (2008) provides a

historical perspective on these challenges, emphasizing that despite constitutional guarantees of

press freedom, journalists often faced substantial restrictions. During Obasanjo's second term,

the government was accused of employing various tactics to suppress dissenting voices and

control media narratives. Dare (2013) highlights specific instances where journalists were

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harassed or faced legal threats for their reporting, illustrating the persistent tension between

media freedom and government censorship. This period underscores the difficulties faced by the

media in maintaining independence amidst political pressures and legal constraints.

The Role of Media in Democratic Governance, The media's role in promoting democratic

governance is well-documented, with scholars emphasizing its function as a check on

governmental power. Mbachu (2019) argues that an independent press is crucial for ensuring

transparency and accountability. During Obasanjo's presidency, the media was pivotal in

covering significant political events, such as anti-corruption campaigns and electoral reforms.

However, the effectiveness of the media in performing its watchdog role was often compromised

by governmental attempts to control or influence media coverage (Iroanya, 2015). This dynamic

highlights the complex relationship between media practices and political authority.

Media Coverage of Political Events, The impact of media coverage on public perception

and political discourse is a critical area of study. Research by Dare (2013) indicates that media

coverage of Obasanjo's policies and political events played a significant role in shaping public

opinion. The media’s portrayal of key issues, including anti-corruption measures and political

reforms, influenced how the public perceived the administration. However, the extent to which

this coverage was influenced by governmental pressures is a crucial aspect of understanding the

broader implications of media-government relations (Akinfeleye, 2008).

Impact of Media on Public Perception, The media’s influence on public perception and

political engagement has been a focus of scholarly research. Mbachu (2019) notes that media

reporting during periods of political crisis can either mobilize public opinion or contribute to

political apathy. The media’s coverage of Obasanjo's administration had a significant impact on

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public attitudes towards his government, demonstrating the media’s role in shaping political

discourse and public perception. This relationship between media coverage and public perception

underscores the importance of a free and independent press in democratic governance.

Challenges and Opportunities for Media Practice The literature also addresses the various

challenges faced by the media in Nigeria, including financial dependence, political pressures,

and security risks for journalists. Iroanya (2015) discusses how these challenges constrain the

media’s ability to perform its watchdog role effectively. Despite these obstacles, there are

opportunities for improving media practices and enhancing press freedom through reforms and

support for independent journalism. Addressing these challenges is crucial for ensuring that the

media can effectively contribute to democratic processes and hold government officials

accountable.

Under Olusegun Obasanjo's second term (1999-2007), the Nigerian press continued to

evolve, reflecting broader changes in media technology and political dynamics. Chukwuemeka

Eze (2019) examined the impact of digital media technologies, which revolutionized news

dissemination and audience engagement, altering media-government relations and shaping public

discourse. Ngozi Nwosu (2020) highlighted the press’s critical role in fostering democratic

dialogue, promoting voter participation, and advocating for electoral reforms during Obasanjo's

presidency, emphasizing its role as a catalyst for civic engagement.

Chioma Udeh (2017) focused on the influence of media ownership structures, revealing how

corporate interests and political affiliations affected journalistic practices and editorial

independence. The study underscored challenges such as media concentration and commercial

pressures, which threatened the integrity of reporting. Meanwhile, Oluwatoyin Onigbinde (2015)

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explored the realm of investigative journalism, detailing the risks faced by journalists, including

threats to personal safety and legal harassment. Despite these challenges, investigative

journalism played a crucial role in exposing corruption and influencing policy reforms.

Abiodun Adedayo (2018) addressed the ethical dilemmas encountered by journalists during

Obasanjo’s presidency, particularly in balancing journalistic integrity with political pressures and

media ownership interests. The work of veteran reporters like Dele Olojede (2009) and Funke

Egbemode (2011) provided firsthand accounts of the daily challenges and ethical dilemmas faced

by journalists navigating the complex political landscape.

Post-independence, the Nigerian press saw further development with the promulgation of the

National Broadcasting Commission Decree No 38 of 1992, which facilitated the establishment of

private broadcasting entities like Ray Power FM and Africa Independence Television (AIT).

Despite these advancements, the press has often been viewed as an adversary by those in power,

a sentiment rooted in historical tensions between the media and government. The evolution of

the press, from its colonial roots to its role during Obasanjo’s second term, reflects a persistent

struggle for independence and a commitment to democratic principles amidst political

challenges.

2.2 Theoretical Framework

In examining the interplay between the press and government during President Olusegun

Obasanjo's second term, a multifaceted theoretical framework provides a nuanced understanding

of media dynamics. Agenda-Setting Theory, articulated by McCombs and Shaw (1972), is

instrumental in analyzing how media outlets prioritize certain issues, thereby shaping public

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focus and discourse. During Obasanjo's presidency, the media's emphasis on specific political

events, such as anti-corruption initiatives and electoral reforms, likely influenced the public's

perception and prioritization of these issues. This theory helps illuminate the role of media in

directing public attention to government policies and political developments.

Framing Theory complements this analysis by exploring how media stories are

constructed and presented to shape audience interpretations (Entman, 1993). The way media

framed Obasanjo's policies and political controversies—whether as progressive reforms or

contentious issues—impacted public understanding and sentiment. This theory allows for an

examination of the media's narrative strategies and their effects on public perception of

government actions.

The Political Economy of the Media perspective provides a critical lens on how

economic and political factors influence media content and independence. McChesney (1999)

emphasizes that media organizations often operate under financial and political constraints that

can affect their reporting. During Obasanjo's second term, governmental pressures, such as

censorship and political interference, potentially shaped media practices and content. This theory

helps explain how such constraints may have impacted the media's ability to report freely and

critically.

Media Dependency Theory offers insights into the relationship between media

consumption and public perception. According to Ball-Rokeach and DeFleur (1976), individuals

who are highly dependent on media for information are more susceptible to media influences on

their attitudes and beliefs. This theory is relevant for understanding how Nigerians’ perceptions

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of Obasanjo’s government were shaped by their media consumption, especially in an

environment where access to diverse and independent information sources was limited.

Finally, the Democratic Theory of the Press, as outlined by Siebert, Peterson, and

Schramm (1956), asserts that the media plays a crucial role in fostering democratic governance

by ensuring transparency, holding power accountable, and facilitating public debate. This theory

provides a normative framework for evaluating whether the Nigerian media during Obasanjo's

presidency upheld its democratic responsibilities. It assesses whether the media effectively

scrutinized government actions and contributed to democratic discourse, despite the challenges

posed by governmental pressures and censorship.

Together, these theories offer a comprehensive framework for analyzing the complex

interactions between the press and government during Obasanjo's second term, providing

insights into how media practices and government policies influenced public opinion and

democratic governance.

CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Introduction

This chapter gives an outline of research methods that were followed in the study. It provides

information on the participants, that is, the criteria for inclusion in the study, who the

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participants were and how they were sampled. The researcher describes the research design that

was chosen for the purpose of this study and the reasons for this choice. The instrument that was

used for data collection was also described and the procedures that was followed to carry out this

study are included. Lastly, the researcher also discusses the methods used in analyzing data.

3.1 Research Design

This study set out to comparatively analyze The Press Under President Olusegun Obasanjo

Second Term as President Of Nigeria, The researcher adopted Qualitative survey research design

to find out answers to the questions raised from the research objectives, viz; To find out if the

emergence of press media in Nigeria; To establish if the emergence of the press was a challenge

to government owned broadcast media in the country; if management style affects radio stations

operations in the country during his regime .

3.2 Population of Study

The study population is estimated from May 29, 2003 - May 29, 2007 of former president

Olusegun Obasanjo. The source used to identify the data’s are Newspaper and Magazine.

Newspapers and Magazines:

Taking 2 major newspapers and magazine each published an average of 10 relevant articles per

month over 48 months, that’s 2 x 10 x 48 = 960 articles.

Total Estimated Population:

 Newspapers and magazines: 960 articles

Total estimated population size: 960

3.3 Sampling Size

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Sampling is defined as a small group of element drawn through a definite procedure from the

specified population. Sampling takes place because we cannot study the entire population.

Sample was taken for this study is 960.

3.4 Sample Techniques

A systematic sampling technique was employed. This approach involved selecting a consistent

number of relevant articles—10 per month—from two major newspapers and magazine over a

period of 48 months. By multiplying the number of newspapers and magazine (2), the average

number of articles per month (10), and the duration of the study (48 months), a total of 960

articles was determined.

3.5 Research Instruments

The instruments of data collection for analyzing the newspaper and magazine articles include several key

tools. First, a content analysis framework is used to systematically evaluate and categorize the content of

the articles, identifying patterns and themes relevant to the study. Data extraction sheets help record

essential information from each article, including details, publication dates, and key content points,

ensuring organized and consistent data collection. A database management system is employed to store

and manage the 960 articles, making them easily accessible for analysis.

3.6 Method of Data Presentation

The method of data presentation for analyzing the newspaper and magazine articles involves

several key techniques to effectively communicate the findings. Descriptive statistics are used to

summarize and describe the basic features of the data, such as the number of articles per month

and the distribution of topics. Tables and charts help organize and visually represent the data,

with tables displaying article counts by various categories and charts like bar graphs or pie charts

illustrating distributions and trends. A content analysis matrix categorizes and compares content

across different variables, aiding in the comparative analysis of themes and tones. Graphs and

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trend lines are employed to show changes in article frequency and topic prevalence over time.

3.7 Method of Data Analysis

The method of data analysis for examining the collected newspaper and magazine articles

involves several qualitative approaches. Content analysis is used to systematically review the

articles, identifying and categorizing recurring themes, topics, and sentiment. This process

involves coding the content and interpreting the patterns to uncover significant trends and

insights. Thematic analysis further explores these patterns by diving into the underlying themes

and narratives present in the articles, offering a deeper understanding of how specific issues are

framed and discussed. Trend analysis tracks how these themes and topics evolve over time,

providing insights into shifts in public discourse and media focus. Comparative analysis

contrasts the content across different newspapers and time periods, highlighting differences and

similarities in coverage and perspective. Sentiment analysis assesses the tone of the articles,

exploring variations in positive, negative, and neutral sentiments across different topics and time

frames. Finally, visualization techniques are employed to represent these qualitative findings

through charts, graphs, and infographics, facilitating a clearer interpretation of the data and

revealing key insights and trends in an accessible manner.

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