THE ROLE OF PRINT MEDIA IN THE POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT OF A NATION

Study basically focuses attention on the role of print media in a political development in a nation with a case of the Nation Newspaper, Lagos. Print media has over the years performs 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 print media as a major player in democratic governance and development has 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. The mass media especially newspaper has reshaped the public opinion, but they are in turn influenced and manipulated by different interest groups in society. The media promote democracy by among other things, educating voters, protecting human rights, promoting tolerance among various social groups, and ensuring that governments are transparent and accountable. newspaper has been used to support democracy and development. The newspapers, for example, have exposed mismanagement in high office, resulting in the resignation or toppling of heads of state and in the enactment of governance reforms.