This monograph investigates the role the media played in the coverage of the 2011 Presidential Election in Nigeria. It assesses the gamut of interests, demands, and expectations which significantly influenced their coverage of the election, and the patterns and directions which the election took. Two research designs: content analysis and survey were used in the study. Content analysis was used in assessing the direction of media coverage of the election. Survey, the second method was used in determining the general perception of the Nigerian electorate about media coverage of the election. Findings show that the print media played the role of promoting electoral malpractice in the 2011 Presidential Election by furnishing the structures for manipulation and entrenching the mechanisms for malpractice. Ownership, corruption, and financial considerations were also found to be critical influences in the coverage of the election. Evidence also shows audiences perception of the coverage of the election by the media as being lopsided, biased and partisan. Based on these findings it has been recommended that Nigerian media should resolve to collectively stand up.

Autorentext

Nicholas S. Iwokwagh, PhD is an Assistant Professor and the Pioneer Head, Department of Mass Communication Technology, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria. He has taught at Benue State University, Makurdi; Kogi State University, Anyigba; and Nasarawa State University, Keffi. He is currently the Coordinator, Media Technology .