Fake news, hate speech and the implications of government responses in Nigeria, 2015-2019
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Date
2019-10
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Publisher
Journal of Communication and Media Research
Abstract
New threats of fake news and hate speeches are emerging as global threats to democracies across the globe. They have further become very effective due to widespread availability and adoption of information and communication technology tools, especially the social media. However, governments either at the state or Federal levels, have provided several options to tackle the menace. Against this backdrop, this paper examined the response of the Nigeria government and State agencies to these threats. Critical analysis of literature, media reports, social media posts and purpose interviews were conducted to understand public reaction to government’s responses to these threats. The paper revealed among other things that government’s response to fake news and hate speech is noble. However, the approach has led to series of abuse of fundamental human rights of the citizenry, especially freedom of speech and privacy. It further revealed that majority of the people viewed such responses as undemocratic and fascist. The paper, among other things recommended inclusive policies, mass education and good governance.
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Keywords
Hate Speech, Fake News, Elections, Freedom of Information Act, Human Rights