By Ifeoma Ben, LLM, MBA
In Nigeria today, many people no longer rely on newspapers, radio, or television as their primary source of news. Instead, platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram are shaping how information is consumed, shared, and debated. This shift has created opportunities for citizen journalism, giving ordinary Nigerians the power to report events in real time. However, it has also fuelled a growing crisis of credibility, with misinformation and unverified claims spreading faster than ever before.
Social Media and the Democratisation of News
The ability to instantly post updates, videos, and commentary has transformed how Nigerians engage with current affairs. During elections, protests, or emergencies, social media often becomes the first point of information, sometimes even before traditional media outlets can respond. This has helped amplify voices that were once marginalised and increased public participation in national conversations. For many young people, platforms like TikTok and X are not just entertainment channels but their main window into the world.
The Credibility Crisis
While social media has democratised access to news, it has also blurred the line between fact and opinion. The absence of editorial checks and the pressure for speed over accuracy have made misinformation a daily challenge. In recent years, fake news stories, (doctored political videos, health misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic) have spread widely, undermining trust in both traditional and new media. The consequences are significant: misinformation can inflame ethnic tensions, damage reputations, and even influence election outcomes.
Legal and Ethical Dimensions
Nigeria has taken steps to address this challenge. Laws such as the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 and regulations by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) are intended to curb harmful content online. Also, the proposed National Press Council Amendment Bill has sparked debates about how far regulation should go without stifling free speech. Ethical issues also come into play, traditional media houses are pressured to verify and fact-check content while balancing speed, whereas social media platforms are criticised for not doing enough to filter out falsehoods.
The Role of Lawyers and Policymakers
Lawyers are increasingly central to this conversation. They advise media organisations and digital platforms on compliance with defamation laws, data protection, and content regulation. They also help policymakers draft laws that strike a balance between combating misinformation and protecting constitutional rights to free expression. For businesses, legal guidance is critical to navigating brand reputation risks when fake news circulates. As Nigeria’s digital media ecosystem expands, legal professionals will play a vital role in shaping frameworks that uphold both innovation and accountability.
Conclusion
The rise of user-generated news is not inherently negative; it has empowered citizens, expanded access to information, and fostered transparency. Yet, without stronger checks on credibility and clear regulatory frameworks, the risks of misinformation will continue to grow. Moving forward, collaboration among social media platforms, journalists, regulators, and the legal industry is essential to build a trustworthy information ecosystem that supports Nigeria’s democracy and digital future.
Ifeoma Ben is a Partner at The Law Suite and the Editor-in-Chief of Lawhauz Magazine and can be reached on 08033754299
