AN ANALYSIS OF THE SOCIAL MEDIA BILL AND ITS IMPLICATION ON FREEDOM OF SPEECH

ABSTRACT

This research examines the pitfalls of the social media bill and its implication on freedom of speech. Freedom of expression is a cornerstone upon which the very existence of a democratic society rests. It is indispensable for the formation of public opinion. This research examines the scope of freedom of expression in Nigeria, it discusses how adequate the laws governing hate speech in Nigeria. It was shown that freedom of expression is not freedom of the press or users of the social media to destroy other fundamental rights of individuals like the right to family life and privacy or the national interest of the nation at large. It was also shown that freedom of expression has limits in Nigeria. However, despite the fact that Nigerian are provided with Freedom of expression by the Nigerian constitution, the research finds out that freedom of expression is not freedom of the press or users of the social media to destroy other fundamental rights of individuals like the right to family life and privacy or the national interest of the nation at large. This research recommends that media organizations and journalist who are morally inclined to ethical journalism should mobilize and conscientize the public through citizenship education to shun and confront hate speech and foul language online a part of their civil responsibility.