Illegal assaults and treatment of journalists: a big challenge to the journalism profession in Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose

One of the greatest obstacles confronting the journalism profession in the discharge of their duties is the indiscriminate physical and digital threat being experienced by journalists all over the world, particularly within sub-Saharan Africa. The continuous attacks facing journalists in Africa, most especially during election times, violate their fundamental human rights. Journalists play a major role in the dissemination of information before, during and after an election. Unfortunately, elections in many African States are characterised by uncertainty, due to the possibility of election-related violence, which has led to the killing and disappearance of many journalists.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a qualitative research approach involving a descriptive survey design. A purposive sampling of 20 respondents is adopted across various media organisations in Nigeria.

Findings

The study explores the role and importance of journalists during an election. It also examines the consequences of electoral violence on journalists and the discharge of their duties. It further assesses the role of the state authority in the protection of life and the safety of journalists during the election period. Finally, the study posits that a guard against the threat against journalists such as killings, ill-treatment and other interferences during and after the election period is essential and should be taken as a collective responsibility of all the various stakeholders in the community and nations.

Originality/value

The study assesses the various threats to the journalism profession, especially during the election period.

Citation

Ola, A.A. (2020), "Illegal assaults and treatment of journalists: a big challenge to the journalism profession in Nigeria", Journal of Aggression, Conflict and Peace Research, Vol. 12 No. 3, pp. 151-161. https://doi.org/10.1108/JACPR-03-2020-0486