ABSTRACT
The study examined the role of mass
media in preventing election rigging using the Punch newspaper and Osun State
Broadcasting Corporation, Osogbo as a case study. Media have over the years
perform a very crucial role in the socio- political and economic development of
Nigeria. Mass media are often
referred to as the fourth estate of realm because of the power they wield and
the oversight function they exercise. The media as a major player in democratic
governance have been recognized since the late 17th century, and remains a
fundamental principle of modern-day democratic theory and practice especially
in educating, enlightening, mobilizing the electorates before, during and after
elections. Media promote democracy and ensure free and fairness conduct of
election in the country and elimination of all forms of election violence by
educating voters, protecting human rights, promoting tolerance among various
social groups, and ensuring that governments are transparent and accountable.
Media have been used to support democracy and development. Survey method was
adopted while 200 copies of questionnaire were printed and administered to the
respondents of which 180 copies were returned. Table, frequency and percentage
method was used to analyzed that data collected. It is recommended that that mass media should be free from few
influential politicians to avoid turning the media into tools of propaganda.
While Nigeria should adopt America style where all media are not commercial
when political band is lifted so that the rich will not dominate the air.
