Press and Freedom of Information bill

The press is the combination of both the electronic and print media and the people that work therein. It is sometimes referred to as the mass media.

The Free Press

The free press is one that is free from any governmental influence and is allowed to constructively criticize government policies, corrupt government or public officials, societal ills with the aim of perpetrating good governance.

The activities of thing Press in ensuring democracy

The mass media performs the following;

1. Provision of entertainment: the electronic media entertains the listeners through music, comedy, drama and sports etc. while the print media have cartoons, sport columns and so on.
2. They enlighten the public: the mass media help in mobilizing the citizen support government programs for instance the before and during general elections and the mass media educate the masses on the importance of participating in the exercise. The 2011 general elections became a huge success partly due to the significant role of the mass media.
3. They safeguard citizen’s rights: most privately owned media organizations helped in exposing and condemning human rights abuses especially during the military era.
4. Provisions of information: this is the major function of the mass media as they provide the medium through which citizens get enough information on governmental activities and policies. They also give Nigerians the platform to air their views on government policies.

Freedom of the press – Reasons for and how to ensure press freedom.

1. To guarantees fundamental rights:  rights of citizens are protected as the press can expose all forms of human rights abuse.
2. To educate the citizens about government activities in the society.
3. Checking the deeds of those in authority.
4. Exposing the corrupt practices of corporate and political class.
5. Perpetrating good governance in the society.
6. Exposing the ills of the society and recommend solutions to them.

The F.O.I Bill

A bill is a proposed law that has to be deliberated upon by parliament and to be passed into law when assented into law by executives. The F.O.I.Bill grants the press access to government information, data’s and the event as well as the competence to report the consumption of the citizens who should understand government activities.

Importance of the F.O.I.Bill

1. It enhances the freedom of the print and electronic media: to write and express their opinion.
2. It allows the press to freely disseminate information to the people in choice of candidate and political parties.
3. It enforces the press such that it becomes more functional.
4. It enhances transparency in government.
5. It enhances accountability of people in government.
6. It strengthens all other pillars of democracy.

ASSIGNMENT:

1.What are the functions of the press in strengthening democracy?

1. Explain the term “Press Freedom”
2. State three importance of F.O.I.Bill.