Emma Okonji
The Association of Media and Communication Researchers of Nigeria (AMCRON), has faulted Nigeria’s political actors, particularly the electoral body and political parties, for not tapping into the potentials of social media in strengthening democracy and providing good governance in the country and by extension, the African continent.
AMCRON raised the concern about the relationship between the media and political actors at its third International Conference and Annual General Meeting in Lagos, insisting that Nigerian political actors must leverage social media to boost good governance in the country.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the two days conference, participants made resolutions regarding politics and governance, the role of the media, and the relevance of social platforms and emerging technologies.
According to the communiqué, it is important to note that what has failed in Nigeria is not democracy, but the operators of democracy, which has affected good governance in both the political and business circles.
“A stable political environment is an indispensable ingredient of economic growth and development. Good governance as reflected in the areas of social, political, and economic advancement is a prerequisite for the attainment of a full-fledged democracy. There is a need to entrench the principle of majority rule, healthy intra and inter-party competition, free and fair election, separation of powers between the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, strict adherence to due process and the rule of law, and effective participation of civil society groups such as the media as well as civil rights organisations, as part ways of ensuring that all and sundry promote good governance and accountability in Nigeria,” the communiqué pointed out.
On the relevance of social media and emerging technologies in political engagement, social mobilisation, and digital governance, the conference resolved that the influence of social media on political participation, public discourse, and government responsiveness, is undeniable.
The conference however said challenges related to misinformation and digital divides negatively affect the prospects of equitable and transparent governance on the African continent.
“Social media has enhanced democracy in the digital age, and it has the potential for constructive deliberation in online forums. Organisations need to actively leverage digital platforms in their Public Relation practices by being open to possibilities in the digital space, while being mindful of the risks of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machining Learning (ML) and Robotics among others. There is a need for a global multi-stakeholder protocol to regulate AI, one where African countries like Nigeria have a say in policy outcomes,” communiqué further said.
On the role of the media, the conference resolved that the Nigerian media are responsible for making the government accountable for their actions and policies just as the citizens have the right to demand good governance and hold the government responsible for their shortcomings.
While declaring the conference open, Conference Chairman and Head of Trokya Holdings, Dr. Biodun Shobanjo, touched on the relevance of AMCRON and the need for the conference to highlight and identify solutions to political and media
Chairman of AMCRON’s Board of Trustees, Professor Ralph Akinfeleye, extolled the surveillance function and the constitutional obligation of the Nigerian media to hold government accountable to the people.
President of AMCRON, Professor Eserinune McCarty Mojaye, called for increased funding and support for AMCRON and media research, as a way of promoting the role of the media in good governance.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Professor Adepoju Tejumaiye, commented on the vital link between media and governance, while calling for greater support for the media.
