The Nigerian Press and Its Plutocratic Relationship
摘要
The phenomenon of press capture has become an increasingly critical issue in today’s information landscape. This chapter examines the dynamics of press capture in Nigeria by analysing the intersection of media ownership, state influence, and the power of corporate and big businesses in shaping news production and narratives. Using Critical Political Economy (CPE) theory and interviews with 13 purposively sampled media practitioners from leading media organisations, such as The Guardian, The Punch, Tribune, Leadership, Sahara Reporters, Cable and The Premium Times, the study explores the mechanisms by which control over the press is established and maintained, as well as the broader implications for democratic processes and the public’s access to impartial information. It also considers strategies to contest press capture, highlighting the role of regulatory reforms, public activism, and alternative media platforms in promoting press integrity and pluralism.