Benue State University, Makurdi

Press Freedom, Freedom of Information and National Security: Misconceptions, Truth and Perceptions

Oladipo Alaka*and Rotimi Joseph Akomolafe**

Abstract

This article presents a critique of some provisions of Freedom of Information Act (foIA) in Nigeria. It likewise discusses some salient provisions of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria. The article identifies areas of conflict between the media and the government in respect of the right of the media to access information held by public bodies referred to as the practice of opening up government to citizens. The article also examined the failure, neglect and or refusal of successive governments to see the press as a partner in ensuring good governance, rule of law, due process and foundation of a free society. The article examined the challenges of Freedom of Information Act to national development and also various acts of intimidation, state violence, harassment, humiliation, culture of impunity, brutality, and stifling of the media by government and its security operatives by government justificatory claim in the protection of security information and national interest.

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