Press freedom and the media

The paper appraised the media vis–a–vis press freedom with specific implication for a developing country like Nigeria. Based on the discussions surrounding the assumptions of the concept of press freedom which the media are supposed to enjoy in the course of their watchdog role and accountability to the masses and to which they have always lived without, it becomes pertinent to see how with the passage of the freedom of information bill into law can help things move well for the Nigerian journalist as he carries out his responsibilities. Anchored on the libertarian and social responsibility theories, the concepts of press, media and press freedom have been explained, how the law can be best utilized as well as the journalists’ understanding of same. The conclusion is that, press freedom is an integral part of the Fol Act and should be preserved and sustained by all concerned while journalists should not on their part abuse the said freedom. The paper recommends amongst others that given the enabling atmosphere, the media should facilitate the promotion of positive judicial attitudes to the FOIA. It is also imperative to sensitize the courts on the import of the law and secure the “buy-in” of judges which most times stands in the way of smooth judicial processes in order to ensure effective implementation of the Act.