Media and Election Disputes in Nigeria

Abstract

The electoral process in Nigeria and much of Africa is often characterised by disputes, many of which result in violence. Worldwide, the mass media is a critical stakeholder in the electoral process. Indeed, it is not only a key institution in the electoral system, but is also instrumental in the democratic process. Why are African elections often marred by disputes? What role does the mass media play in the management of electoral disputes in Nigeria? What needs to be done to ensure that the media works towards peaceful resolution of such disputes? The political economy, social responsibility (media) and frustration-aggression theories are invoked to examine these issues. This chapter argues that the mass media in Nigeria is constrained by its patterns of evolution and focus; the character of the Nigerian state; and management of elections. These factors impeded the realisation of its role to support peaceful resolution of disputes in the nation’s fraught electoral process. Recommendations are made on how to negotiate this challenge to render the mass media a veritable agency for peaceful resolution of election disputes and deepen Nigeria’s democratic process.