Assessing the Role of Broadcast Journalism in Reshaping the Political Terrain in Nigeria Fourth Republic

Abstract

Over the years the Nigerian political environment has been tagged dirty especially in the fourth republic, as a result of this those who may want to venture into politics with genuine interest might be discouraged because of this trend. Regrettably, the political environment in Nigeria is generally based on tribal or regional identity rather than ideology and this has continued to hinder the progress of the political system in Nigeria. Hence, this paper looked at the various roles broadcast media as a powerful tool of change has played or can play in reshaping the political terrain in Nigeria. The authors showed the relationship that exists between broadcast journalism and politics in Nigeria and how it is indispensable in reshaping the political environment. This   study was underpinned on Yale’s persuasion theory. The library research method was adopted in this study. It was concluded that the broadcast media have been doing a lot through its programmes to encourage positive political development and this explain why most of these political actors want to identify with them because of the power they wield in causing change. It was also recommended that broadcast journalism should be free from gagging so that they can function effectively in helping to shape the political terrain of Nigeria. Also, in a situation of heated polity characterized by negativity, broadcast journalism should be non partisan, instead its platform should be used to promote positive politics and encourage tremendous political growth. Through it, political actors will be made to see why positive politics should be practice for the purpose of growth.