AN ASSESMENT OF THE REPORTAGE OF BOOK HARAM … · balance reportage. The Boko Haram sect which forbids western education has caused so much havoc since 2008 till date. They have

Book of Proceedings - Academic Conference of Cambridge Publications & Research International on Sub-Sahara African Transpormation Assessment Vol. 5 No.2. 26th November, 2015- NASU, 1000 Capacity Auditorium Keffi, Keffi, Nasarawa State,

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AN ASSESMENT OF THE REPORTAGE OF BOOK HARAM ACTIVITIES IN THREE (3) SELECTED NATIONAL DAILIES

MARYAM UMAR MUKHTARDepartment of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano, Kano State, Nigeiria.

ABSTRACTThe place of mass media in contemporary issues cannot be over emphasized, they are not only crucial in information dissemination but provides basis for the people to fin formed decision. The print media can both generate and cause conflict, the former through inciting inadequate reporting; none reporting and the later can resolve conflict or crisis through objective and balance reportage. The Boko Haram sect which forbids western education has caused so much havoc since 2008 till date. They have launched so many attacks that claim thousands of lives and properly. It is in this regard that the study sets out to know how well the mass media particularly the print reported this issue. In order to ascertain these, the researcher used the content analytical method of research and made use of three (3) selected national dailies which are the Nation, the Guardian, and the Vanguard. The study arrived at the conclusion that the print media have fared well, have been objective, adequate, and to a large extent played its surveillance role effectively. The study also recommends among other things that media should be firm in carrying out their role in the society.

IntroductionInsurgence, Terrorism, and other forms of Conflict in Nigeria is a major threat to the sustainability of peace and unity especially under this democratic dispensation. In post-colonial era, Nigeria had witnessed War and other forms of ethno religious conflicts. Scholars like Nnanyelugo (2004) and Okechuku (2007) believe that those violent activities in Nigeria are tied to the imbalance in the amalgamation of different people by the British colonial masters which later resulted in the division of the country along North, South, Muslims, Christians, Indigenes and Settlers and that in an attempt to gain upper hand along national scene, these various groups have been set against one another leading to crisis and terrorist attacks across the Nation.Osaghae and Suberu (2005, p. I 8) affirm that in Nigeria, religious related violence and killings to achieve religious and political aims are certainly not a new phenomenon especially in the Northern part of the country. They further explained that these have been in existence right from the pre-colonial days of migration and Jihad by native Africans and Jihadists (from Sudan), to national food shortage strike violence in Plateau state, between the Igbo and Hausa migrants in 1945. Religious and ethno political crisis have remained an integral part of the Nigerian history.Abimbola (2010) holds, that the outbreak of Boko Haram uprising in July 2009 marked yet another phase in the recurring pattern of crisis, riots and disturbances in Nigeria. This implies that the Boko Haram activity is only another form of crisis being witnessed in Nigeria but not the

first religious uprising. Like the first major and subsequent attempts, it widened the scope and efforts of Islamic revivalism. Other religious activities includes the Maitasine uprising of 1980 in Kano, 1982 in Kaduna, 1984 in Yola and 1985 in Bauchi. Obviously, the first attempts at imposing a religious ideology on a secular Nigeria marked the beginning of ferocious conflict and crisis in Nigeria (Isichei 1987, p. 194-208).Following the Maitasine crisis, there were several other crises. These include the Kano metropolitan riot of October 1982, the Ilorin riot of March 1986. The nationwide crisis over Nigerian membership in the organization of Islamic Conference in January - February. 1986, the Kafanchan. Kaduna, Zaria religious riot of March 1987, the acrimonious nationwide debate of Sharia (Islamic law) at the Constituent Assembly in October - Nov 1988, the Bayero University crisis of 1989, the Bauchi Kaslina riots of March, April 1991, the Kano riot of October 1991, the Zangon - kataf riot of May 1992. The Kano civil disturbance of December 1991 and Jos crisis of April 1994 (Imo 1995. P.21-23, Ibrahim 1998, p.5 12-516)Similarly, between 1999 & 2008, 28 other conflicts were reported the most prominent are the Shagamu conflict of July 1999 and the recurrent Jos crisis of 2001, 20'02. 2004, 2008 and Boko Haram outbreak 2009 (Omipidan 2000, P. 5-6). Of the entire aforementioned crisis, none has threatened the peace and security of the Nigeria state like the current crisis masterminded by the Boko Haram sect. The Insurgent sect which is against western education is also officially known as Jama'atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'awati Wal-jihad (Arabic language) and has unleashed and claimed responsibility for series of attacks.Research shows that the sect has existed for a very long time but gained prominence in 2008 when they stormed the police station and prisons in Maiduguri to free their members. The sect's leader, Mohammed Yusuf was caught in the process and allegedly executed by the Nigerian police. The sect has carried out lots of successful attacks after the death of their leader most of which were bomb blasts which have left multitudes of people dead and valuable property destroyed. Some of these attacks include the August 26, 2011 bombing of the United Nations building in Abuja which left 25 persons dead with several casualties, the December 25th bombing of St. Theresa Catholic Church. Madalla in Suleja Local Government Area of Niger state with 43 people dead and several others injured, and the Jan 5th. 2012 killing of Christians in the church in Kano (Emewu 2011 and Suzan, 2012).With all these attacks, Nigeria was recently ranked 19th most at risk country in the world, according to a survey released on August 2011 by United Kingdom global analyst, Maple Croft. With this ranking, the country is now among the countries that are at "extreme risk" from terrorist attacks. Nigeria's current status according to Maple Croft is attributed mainly to the uprising by the militia sect (Bakare,2011). Findings unveiled that all these insurgent activities particularly the Boko Haram received adequate Media attention especially the print media. The place of the mass media in contemporary society cannot be over emphasized; they are not only crucial in information dissemination but also provide bases for people to take informed decision. This is why Golding (1974) as cited by Enahoro and Richard contends, ''The media are central in the provision of ideals and images which people use to interpret and understand a great deal of their everyday


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lives". This view is particularly useful in the time of crisis or emergency where media information reportage is crucial to managing and handling issues emanating from such.The print media particularly has over the years been seen as a tool that can effect change, certainly not always positive or always negative but alternates from one to the other and vice versa. Human beings on the other hand long for change, but this is quite impossible because the human condition by nature makes this an unattainable goal. In effect, there is a breakdown of order, not only within self but also outside the self-stretching towards man's immediate environment and beyond. When this happens, there is breakdown of the process of smooth flow of information from one source to the other. These breakdowns of the communication process usually arise either because one of the parties sees himself as deliberately disadvantaged or imagine himself disadvantaged irrespective of the true state of affairs (Anyanwa 2004, p. 110). In the face of the current security crisis in the country anchored by the Boko Haram sect, the mass media can play an effective role in resolving the crisis through adequate reportage. Bola (2010, p. 83) as cited by Okoro revealed that conflict in Nigeria have adequately received maximum coverage particularly the print media, the surveillance function of the mass' media must be effectively played to warn people of any impending danger through effective, timely accurate reportage.

Statement of the ProblemThe press as it is referred to both print and the electronic media is, regarded as having an essential role to play in nation building. The press has variously been described by different name, one of which is the fourth estate of the realm, a role that empowers it to serve as a check on the functions of the government. Another role designated for the press by the virtue of its involvement in public affairs is that of a watchdog which inevitably result into a relationship between it and the government. In addition, it is referred to as the think tank of the nation and for a young democratic nation like Nigeria, it is the national unifier. In contrast to the above elegant appellation ascribed to the media, the press especially the print has been .perceived as giving much coverage to the Boko Haram activities thereby causing panic and instilling fear into the masses. In this regard, this research intends to find out if the media specifically the print have been accurate, timely, effective, and objective in their reportage.

Objectives of the Study(I) To find out how effective the print media have been in their reportage of Boko Haram(II) To ascertain if the print media have been objective and timely in reporting the Boko Haram insurgence.(III) To find out if the print media have effectively played their I surveillance function in their reportage.(IV) To find out if the print media has been biased in their reportage.

Research Questions(1) Have the print media report the Boko Haram insurgence effectively?(2) To what extent has the print media been objective, timely and adequate in their reportage

of the insurgence?(3) How well has the print media played their surveillance function in the reportage of the

Boko Haram activities?(4) Have the various print media been biased in their reportage of the Boko Haram

insurgence?

Significance of the StudyThis academic research is designed to enlighten the society on the activities of the Boko Haram sect and how the mass media, the print particularly have fared in their reportage of these activities, it will also help the public to be cautious of the danger that accompanied this insurgence. It also intends to draw the attention of the mass media, the print specifically to the perception of their audience and readers about their reportage of the Boko Haram activities. The mass media exist for the society, it is in such a way that people's attitude towards most issues are mainly the result of newspaper, television and radio report. Therefore, the media should always put the interest of the masses first in the cause of their duty.The study will also be of immense importance to the government, security agencies, policy makers, and public affairs analysts. It will provide them with background knowledge of the activities of the sect and best ways to handle it.Based on the fact that research is a continuous process, this study will serve as bases for other researchers who might be interested in finding out more on the Boko Haram insurgence in Nigeria and on related topics in the future.

Brief literatureIn contemporary times, the evil of terrorism, ethnic cleansing and religion bigotry has permeates the Nigerian political landscape. This chapter covers the origin of the Boko Haram sect, a vivid discussion on the ideology of the sect, their mode of operation and sequence of attacks from 2012-2013. As reported by the print media especially these 3 national dailies (The Guardian, The Nation and Vanguard).Furthermore, it will equally explain some theories that are relevant to this research study, for a comprehensive literature review and theoretical analysis, efforts will be made by the researcher to highlight some press reports, articles, journals and other literary works by scholars and authors on the issue of terrorism in Nigeria, for a broader understanding of the phenomenon.

History of TerrorismIn contemporary times, the evil of terrorism, ethnic cleansing and religion history has permeates the Nigerian political landscape. Terrorism cannot be said to be a new phenomenon since it becomes part of human existence. Before the advent of the colonial masters in Africa, slave trade in the west coast of Africa carried


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out by powerful Africans in collaboration with the white slave buyers is a serious act of terrorism in the ancient history of Africa (Sikhondzer, 2005). Udoudo E. (2012, p. 80) notes that inter-religious terrorism still lingers between and among religious bodies of the world. Islamic intra-religious terrorism of Maitasine sect which destroyed many lives in Bauchi and many other places in northern Nigeria is one clear example. Sometimes what seems intra-religious terrorism metamorphoses into inter-religious terrorism in Nigeria.Terrorism is not unique to the modem era; it date back to the eighteenth century Lactuer (1987). Prior to the 1960s, most terrorist activity was localized. It was either confined within a specific geographical jurisdiction or limited to certain regions.The word terrorism has been given different definitions by different groups and individuals. The United Stales Department of Defense defines terrorism as the calculated use of unlawful violence or threat on unlawful violence to inculcate fear, intended to coerce or to intimidate government or society religions or ideological. Within this definition, there are three (3) key elements, that is; fear, violence and intimidation and each is intend to produce terror, in its victims.Hoffman Bruce (2008) reaffirms this when he said; terrorism is the deliberate creation and exploitation of fear for bringing about political change. He further explains that all terrorist acts involve violence or the threat of violence. In the International Student Edition of the Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary (2010, p. 1543), terrorism is "the use of violence action in Order to achieve political aims or to force government into action''.Terrorism is therefore designed to have psychological effects that reach far beyond its impact on the immediate victims or object of an attack. These go a long way to explain why the government and citizens panic when a terrorist threat is made" by any group or individuals. The Defunct League of Nations (1937) quoted in Afowowe (2011, p. 2) described terrorism as all criminal acts directed against a state and intended or calculated to create a state of terror in the minds of particular persons or group of persons or the general public.The history of terrorism is well known and historically significant, individual entities, incident are associated with it whether wrong or right. According to Adeoye (2005) the word terrorism comes from the reign of terror instigated by Maxillae Robespierre in 1793, following the French Revolution. Robespierre, one of the twelve head of the new state had enemies of revolution killed and installed a dictatorship to stabilize the country. He justified his method as necessary in the transformation of the monarchy to a liberal democracy Hoffman (2008). International terrorism became a prominent issue in the late 1960's when hijacking became a favorable tactic Adeoye (2005). In 1968 the popular front for the liberation of Palestine hijacked an EIAI airliner enroute from TEV AVIV lo Rome. Another shocking act of terrorism that swept the world of it feet especially the western pa was the bombing of a PAN AM Flight over Lockerbie and Scotland The largest act of international terrorism occurred on September 11th 2001 in a set of coordinated attacks on the United States of America where Islamic terrorists hijacked civilian airliners and used them to attack the world trade centre towers in New York City and the Pentagon Building in Washington DC.Terrorist groups with national and religious agenda have flourished in very part of the world and

Africa is not exclusive. African has profoundly been impacted by religious and nationalist conflicts which have been attended by destructive acts of terrorism; such act has been established in Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, Uganda and Tanzania as far back as the early 90s.In 1973, the Americans deputy chief of mission George Curtis Moore and a Belgium diplomat were assassinated by the Palestine terrorist group BLAQK SEPTEMBER in Khartoum Sudan; this marks the beginning of extremist acts of terrorism in northern region of Africa. An Egyptian president Hoshy Mubarak was attacked by Jamm'at al-Islammiya, an Egyptian terrorist group, while in 2002 al-Qaeda bombarded simultaneously an Israelite owned hotel and airliner at Mombasa Kenya. Other crisis includes the Liberia crisis. Rwanda's genocide, Sierra Leonean War, Bahrain Unrest, Clampdown on Yemen etc.Internal and external terrorism in Africa according to (Adeoye 2005) has flourished because of abortive or awakening state of governance which allowed financial exploitation by terrorist groups or utilization of internal conflict to recruit native to terrorist networks. The most prominent of all these terrorist attacks is the Khartoum - Sudan over the Sudanese oil. Most terrorist groups especially the Muslim extremist are trained to belief in what they know as the Superiority of Allah and also to demand their supposed justifiable rights by terrorist attacks. Apart from the aforementioned, other crisis or terrorist act have taken place in Africa both in the North, South. East and West Africa, all of which have led to bloodshed, destruction of valuable property and have caused set back in economic growth and governance of the countries.In Nigeria, terrorism dates back to the 1 945 which was powered by the national food shortage strike violence in Plateau state between the Igbos and Hausas migrants, the 1952 killing in the north which was engineered by misconstrued and misdirected politicians and others that have been mentioned earlier.However, two events in Kano in the early eighties signaled the beginning of the end of the post civil war peace in Nigeria. The first involved the Maitasine (or Van Talsine) riot of 1 980 which claimed thousands of live and maitasine heretical, anti materialist, Islamic sect in other northern cities like Buldunkutu. Yolans, Jimeta and Gombe (Chistelow, 1985, Lubek, 1985, 1986) cited by Okafor. The second event was the destruction of churches and other properties belonging to Christians by Muslim Mobs protesting over the construction of churches in Kano's Muslim heartland in October 1982, but the turning point in Nigeria that collapse into inter group strike was the 1987 and 1999 Kafanchan - Kaduna ethno religious riots, which revives age old tensions between the Muslim Hausa Fulani and non-Muslim communities throughout the world and beyond. Lawal, (2007, p. 37) cited in Umechukwu 2012. Other major ones include the Zangon-kataf riots of 1992, the Tafawa Balewa clashes in 1991, 1995 and 2000. The Kaduna riots of 2000 and Jos crisis of 2001 in which several hundreds of lives and properties were destroyed (International IDEA 2000, p. 296). Amidst all these terrorist act, the one that tears the Nigerian state apart most is the dreaded Boko Haram, Nigeria has witnessed a lot of crisis but none is as terrorizing as that of the Boko Haram Sect.

History of Boko Haram


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Boko Haram claimed to be an Islamic militant sect based in Northern Nigeria, (it is otherwise known as Jama'atu Alilis Suna Lidda'awato wal-jihad which means "people committed to the propagation of the Prophet Mohammed's (SAW) teachings and jihad" (Agbo 2012). Some people belief that the Sect was a reborn of Marwa Maitasine which was flushed out by Nigerian government in 1980 (Abimbola 2011). It is said that the Boko Haram Sect began in 1995 and was referred to as Sahaba led by Abubakar Lawan who later left for the University of Medina in Saudi Arabia for further education. In the absence of Lawan, the elderly clerics handed over leadership to a young and active member of the group called Mohammed Yusuf. According to Ekwueme (2011, p. 41) the group came into existence in the 1960s, but only started to draw attention in 2002 when Mohammed Yusuf became it leader.Shehu Sani (2012) says that immediately Yusuf assumed leadership, the doctrine of the Sect changed from the initial doctrine to Boko Haram which means (Western education is a sin). Initially, Boko Haram was entrenched in Borno, Yobe. Katsina, Bauchi, Gombe but has in recent times covered all the northern states and parts of middle belt with yet massive circulation all over the country. Ekwueme (2011, p. 42) added that the group move to Kanamma in Yobe State where it set up a base called "Afghanistan" from where it attacked nearly police stations killing police officers.The Sect grew stronger from 2002 and became more active in 2003, carried out its major attacks in 2004. In 2008, Yusuf commenced an intensive membership mobilization. This was after his release from police custody which was made possible by the Almajiri system in the north and establishment of Islamic school which made it appear harmless to the state.This continued until the Sect started attacking police stations and government building in Maiduguri leading to many deaths. The Sect eventually stormed prisons to free its members where the leader Mohammed Yusuf was captured, detained, and allegedly executed by the Nigerian Police (Isichci 1987).

Ideology of Boko HaramThe Boko Haram leader, Mohammed Yusuf was a secondary school dropout who went to Chad and Niger Republic to study the Quran, while in the two countries, he developed radical views that were abhorrent to westernization and modernization, Yusuf got back to Nigeria and settled in Maiduguri and established a sectarian group as the Yusifiyya named after him, the Sect was able to attract more than 280.000 members across northern Nigeria as well as Chad and Niger Republic. Yusuf began his radical and provocative preaching against other Islamic scholars such as Jakar Adam, Abba Aji and Yahaya Jinjir and against established political institution (Danjibo 2012).The ideology of the Sect can best be understood by explicating the two words "Boko and Haram". In Hausa language, the word "Boko" means western or foreign, while the word "Haram" means to forbid putting the two words together Boko Haram means to forbid everything western and western education. The intent is to replace modern state formation with the traditional Islamic state, because western values run contrary to Islamic values Umma

Mohammadiya (Muslim faithful) and Dar-ul-Islamic (Islamic community) cannot be compromised in the face of western influence. They belief that evil in the society is as a result of embracing western civilization in order to curb such evil an Islamic society must be entrenched by destroying modem state institutions.The philosophy goes hand in hand with the entrenchment of sharia law in the society. This accounts for the reason why police formations and government establishment and properties become the target of destruction by the Sect Danjibo. (2012). According to Alhaji AH Danjume. minority leader in the House of Representatives, he said that Boko Haram was an assemblage of youths who were school drop outs and University graduates who were not gainfully employed and who believe that their state of hopelessness was caused by the government that imposed western education and failed to manage the resources of the country to the benefit of all. The Sect are filled with the ideas that anyone who fought and died for the cause of an Islamic or Sharia state by destroying modern state formation and government establishment would automatically gain "Aijana" (paradise or heaven). It is based on these ideologies that the Boko Haram members hang on to the group.

The Role of the Press in the Boko Haram InsurgencePress freedom is an issue in contemporary media practice. It establishes that media practitioners especially journalists reserve the freedom to probe dig and pry for the purpose of obtaining information news and opinion and publish same without hindrance. It pre-supposes that the gathering and reporting of news and opinion should operate without any limitation or constraint.According to Okonkwo (1995, p. 65} the legal right of the press to disseminate public views and events without hindrance and in accordance with the law is what press freedom is all about.Contrary to the above, Nigeria press have not enjoyed these privileges as many journalist have lost their lives and jobs such as the killing of Zakariya Isa whom the Boko Haram group claimed was a government informant. According to a report by Nigerian compass in its October 25th edition signed by the sect.

We killed him because he was spying on us for Nigerian security agencies. He was not killed in error, it was carefully planned. He was not killed because he was a journalist but for giving vital information about our operation to security agencies which led to the arrest of many of our members” (2011, p. I).

Three months later, Enenche Akogwu of channels was killed while on an official duty and the bombing of this Day newspaper house by the sect. The Boko Haram sect also went as far as issuing warning to the Nigerian mass media, the daily sun of 5th June, 2012 reported that the sect warned media houses to be careful or face bomb attacks. The story reads: even as he issued another threat on media houses and journalist for exaggeration and giving prominence to stories given to them by our enemies even when such press releases and stories are not true (p. 16).The newspaper report was quoting the spokesman of the sect Abu Qaqa. In the same vein, the daily trust equally published another threat issued to the media by the sect; it reads:


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We are also sending red signals to all media houses who relentlessly gave prominence to what Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi said in respect of the purported dialogue to accord similar treatment to what we said. Any media organization that fails to give us the right to reply should have itself to blame because we would target it even if such media is not among the ones we earlier promised to attack. This is a warning to all radio, television, and news paper houses (p. 5)

Elaborating more on the press freedom, servant in Dararnola (2003, P. 189) says "the freedom of the press does not mean the freedom of the owners of media alone or the privilege of the journalists; it is essentially the freedom of the people to be informed adequately and accurately. It is in this plight that the managing director of this day summoned the courage to reassure the public after the bomb attack on their newspaper house which blew off the roof of the building, power generator and printing plant. His words read:

We regard the coordinated bombing as tin attack on journalism and free speech. However, we want to assure our readers and advertisers that we remain committed to the fundamental principles upon which the newspaper was found, democracy free enterprise and social justice; we will not be deterred in our pursuit of truth and reason. No amount of threat or intimidation will weaken our resolve.

In Nigeria, we have witnessed war and other forms of ethno-religious crisis which research findings have unveiled that these crises all received adequate media attention. Bola (2010, P. 83) affirmed the above when he revealed in his study that conflicts in Nigeria have consistently received maximum media coverage. Timiebi (2010, P. 45) agreed with the finding of Bola when he revealed in his study that the Niger Delta crisis as adequately covered by the Nigerian mass media particularly the print. Apart from adequacy of reportage, another role of the press, particularly the print media is timeliness: it is a criterion that will help us to effectively analyze the role of the press in the Boko Haram Insurgence. It is a fundamental and an expedient criterion for news worthiness. For news to make the desire impact, timeliness is a core demand. It is yardstick amongst others, which is always employed to assess the worthiness of an event laying credence to the above assertion. Okuna (1999. p. 46) affirmed that the quality of newness is the most fundamental of the criteria for determining what should qualify as news.In Nigeria, scholars and individuals have contended that the media particularly the print media have not been timely in Afolabi (2010, p. 63) lends credence to the above assertion when he unveiled in his study that the Nigerian media have not fared well in timely reportage of insurgencies particularly the Niger Delta crisis. Yusuf (2010, P. 92) agreed with Afolabi when he equally found in his study that the media have failed in giving timely account of the Boko Haram crisis.

Looking at the role of the media in the Boko Haram crisis, another core criterion in evaluating the role of the press in the Boko Haram activities is the surveillance function. Here, the media are expected to bring to the consciousness of the public impending dangers, this function places a demand on the media to cover, analyze and report significant developments within and outside a given society. Lasswefl (1984) in Odigbo (2000, p. 178) opines that they (mass media) watch over, guard and alert society of impending problems and often proffer the way forward.Studies have revealed that the Nigeria media have not fared well in this regard, Okpara (2010. p. 31) unveiled in his study that the Nigerian media are yet to effectively play the surveillance function of the media in their reportage of crisis. He contended that this has led to the unabated conflicts in Nigeria. Okali (201 I, p. 75) leads support to the above finding when he unveiled in his study that the Nigerian media have not done well in discharging their surveillance role, particularly in the Boko Haram crisis.From the above, it is obvious that while some scholars rate the Nigeria press in the area of peace building. Others are of the view that the Nigeria press over covered terrorism activities thereby giving them undue credence or attention.

Types of Terrorism1. Religious Related Terrorism: In the world of Christianity, history has presented cases of

religion terrorism among religious leaders. Various reforms associated with Christianity came with the execution of church leaders due to doctrinal disagreement (Isichei 1995). The punch (2005) reports how youths in Grounder in Niger state set three houses ablaze while 26 persons were injured during Easter celebration, this was in addition to a Baptist that was attacked which injured five youths and five cars damaged in mina. Ashong and Udoudo (2010, p. 25) decry the use of public communication by religious leaders to cause religious terrorism as pictured in many parts of northern Nigeria.When terrorism has any religious base, it takes a journalist a great deal of courage, selfless and unalloyed patriotism to present a balanced report especially in a situation where he belongs to the religion which carried the terrorist act. This seems to be one of the challenges many Nigerian journalist have in reporting religious based terrorism. Many times, Nigerian journalist is observed arguing among themselves or playing down on investigation when the issue is religious based terrorism.

2. Socio-Economic Driven Terrorism: Nigeria has witnessed a great deal of socio economic driven terrorism. It all started with what looks like an agitation for development and recognition in the Niger delta when the white who worked with multinational oil firms were abducted at work and residences. It spread of Nigerian workers until ransoms were demanded and paid. Then it was found out to be a lucrative venture among criminals and the jobless who kidnapped and over raped all kinds of people and got ransoms of all sorts Jamie (2009, p. 7).While the socio-economic continued, a few people tried to pick up some argument for such terrorism, Pete Edochie at AIT studio in 2009 while narrating his ordeal with kidnappers said


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that they (kidnappers) alleged that public money was concentrated in the hands of politicians and political office holders. Also Adams Oshiomole, governor of Edo state observes that if the boys who are armed robbers and kidnappers were caught earlier with good employment, they would not have abandoned their job.

3. Politically Driven Terrorism: Nigeria has witness many acts of politically motivated terrorism, though this is not limited to Nigeria some political movement started with acts of terrorism opposing the government in power. Terrors such as Mafia, Mau-Mau in (Kenya) Jaujaweed in (Sudan) and similar other reforming to clandestine political groups often reminds one of terrorism. Boko Haram known for its hatred for western education is another politically driven terrorist group in Nigeria Maiduguri used lo be very serene city in north eastern Nigeria has not seen peace since after the first outburst of Boko Haram. Frequent bombings have taken the centre stage in Maiduguri where lives and properties have been lost radio Nigeria (July 8. 2011). The world over politically-induced terrorism that has engulfed the Arab world over two decades now has the capacity of threatening the global peace, the point here is that 'global media have set the agenda for the discussion on the terrorism that goes on in the affected Arab countries like wise in Nigeria, the print media as earlier discussed has also highlight the activities of terrorism prevalent especially in the northern part of the country.

Theoretical FrameworkIn order to frilly understand and carry out an indebt examination, this research will be anchored on the combination of two theories which include the Agenda setting theory and the Social responsibility theory because they are applicable to this study. The use of these theories becomes very crucial considering the words of Defleurs (1970. p. 97). To try to explain the consequences of the mass media of communication for the audience whose attentions are turned towards them, a variety of ideas, assumptions, theories and hypothesis has been advanced over a considerable number of years.Hence, the performance of the press (newspapers) in the Boko Haram insurgence is established within these theoretical frameworks. According to Lewin (1958) cited in Folarin (1996, p 4) theories enable us to put fact in perspective and to predict what will happen even before the event theorizing about gets completed. But in the view of Okoro (2001, p. 1) theories serve as a research formulation which enables the researcher to describe, analyze and interpret events. To Osuala (2005, p.'75) theory is an attempt at selecting and putting together information that has been scientifically tested (empirical data) so that it can clarify and unify all happenings in the society.With the above assertions, the earlier mentioned theories will be used as they go a long way to explain the role of the selected national newspapers their reportage of Boko Haram activities. It is in this light Siebert, Shramm, and Theodore (1956, p. 1) opined that they have always in their tenets assumed that the press always takes on the form and coloration of the social and political structures in which it operates.

The Agenda Setting TheoryThe agenda setting theory implies that the fact which people know about public issues tend to be those which the mass media present to them. Also, the significance which they ascribe to the same issues tends to be proportionate to the amount of attention given to the same issues in the media.This theory is an important frame to this research work as it posits that the mass media (the print) determine what issues are regarded as important and worthy of public attention at a given time in a given society. The theory holds that there is relationship between news coverage and public perception of the importance of issues. It also posits that the mass media attention to an issue will elevate such issues to high point of importance by the public.Here, it is assumed that the media sets the agenda for our general discussions. The media may not always determine what we think, but what we think about.The agenda setting theory further presupposes that a consistent dissemination of particular information by the media gives the information priority in the public agenda. It describes a very powerful influence of the media.Researchers on the Agenda Setting Theory are concerned with the impact of Mass media on cognitive changes in individuals. In other words, they are curious about the extent to which the media fashion people's social, political and economic realities (Udeajah, 2004, p. 29). According to MC Combs and Shaw (1974), the media emphasis on an issue influences the audience to also view the issue as important. The media attach certain weights to news stories through placement, size and frequency of appearances of such stories. The theory is of the view that the audience learns issues saliently from the news media thereby incorporating similar set of weights and importance into their own personal agenda.This can also be confirmed in the words of Bernard Cohen (1963, p. 13) when he said "The press may not be successful most of the time in telling people what to think but they stunt successful in telling them what to think about". In the same plight, Shaw (1983. P. 132) reaffirms that the media by focusing repeatedly major attention on an event or set of related events, can transfer that event into an issue.Umechukwu (2001, p. 148-150 and Folarin 2002, p. 75-76) also agree that the mass media have an impact on agenda setting in that they have the ability to choose or emphasize certain topics thereby causing the public to perceive the issue or topics as important. This implies that the mass media predetermine what issues are considered important in a given society and how much importance attached to the particular issue. The main idea of the Agenda Setting Theory therefore is that there is a close relationship between the manners in which the news media present issues and the order of importance assigned to those issues by those exposed to the news.Considering the tenets of agenda setting theory of the mass media, it can be inferred that the media can make the Boko Haram activities to become an issue of deliberation, the print media in this regard have succeeded in creating awareness to every home in Nigeria of the existence of Boko Haram and has made the people to be security cautions. This is done by giving the Boko Haram insurgence, prominence, by giving it space, and frequency.


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The level of importance expressed through adequate reportage also draws the attention of the government to the issue and pave ways for urgent attention

Social Responsibility TheorySocial Responsibility Theory of the press emerged in response to the apparent contradictions of libertarian system. As Okoye (2007, p. 38) notes, the social responsibility theory is a model which came into being in the twentieth century following the concerns that the libertarian theory has serious shortcomings which was already hurting the society. In the same view, Ohaja (1997, p. 204) posit that the theory "is said by its proponents to have it root in libertarian theory". He further emphasizes that it goes beyond the libertarian theory, in that it places more emphasis on the press responsibility to the society than on the press freedom. In the real sense, the social responsibility theory came up as a product of the Hutchms Commission of Inquiry of 1947. The aim of the commission was to examine areas and circumstances under which the press of the United states was succeeding or failing, to discover where free expression is or is not limited, whether by government censorship from headers or advertisers or the unwisdom of its proprietor or the timidity of its management (McQuail 2005, p. 170).The press was accused of its frequent failure and for being so limited in the access it gave to voices outside the circle of a privileged and powerful minority. The report coined the notion of social responsibility and named the journalistic standards that the press should seek to maintain, as it reads; A responsible press should provide a full, truthful, comprehensive and intelligent account of the day's events in a context that gives meaning, it should serve as a form for exchange of comment and criticism and be a common carrier of the public expression (McQuail, 2005, p 171).In summary, the commission supported the concept of a diverse, objective, informative and independent press institution which would avoid causing offence or encouraging crime, violence or disorder. Social responsibility should be reached by self-control, not government intervention. However, the later was not ruled out, Siebert, Peterson. Theodore, Shramm (1956) as cited by Mc Quail (2005, p. 171) posits that social responsibility theory hold that the government must not mainly allow freedom, it must actively promote it.The key assumptions of the social responsibility theory according to Mc Quail (2005, p. 172) are: • The media have obligations to the society and media ownership is a public trust. • News media should be truthful, accurate, fair objective and relevant. • The media should be free but self regulated. • The media should follow agreed codes of ethics and. professional conduct.• Under some circumstances, government may need to intervene to safeguard the public

interest.In the view of Okoro and Agbo (2003, p. 23), the major opinion of the social responsibility theory is that, the media should fulfill certain obligations and expectations for the society. The

theory propagates the right of the press to criticize any institution and even government but it must be responsible enough to maintain the stability of the society.The injunction of the press from the perspective of the social responsibility theory according to the American Commission on Press Freedom in Egbon, (1995,p. 30) are that the press be accurate and not lie, facts should be separated from opinion, the press should serve as a forum for the exchange of comment and criticism, it must present a representative picture of constituent groups in the society and must be responsible for the presentation and clarification of the goals and values of the society, while the final injunction is that the press provide full access to the days intelligence. The theory in the view of Daramola (2005. p. 174) implies that:Freedom carries commitment, obligations and the press which enjoys a privilege position under our government is obliged to be responsible to the society by carrying out certain essential functions of mass media in contemporary society.Such functions include; been truthful, objective, fair and accurate in caring out the surveillance function of the press. This theory is of immense important to the study due to the fact that it oblige the press to be responsible to the society.The Nigerian press has a central role to play in resolving the Boko Hara insurgence which posed a great challenge to the Nigerian government and security agencies by reporting accurately, objectively, been fair and balance in their reportage. That way they will be performing their social responsibility.

Research Methodology This study employed the use of content analysis which is a research approach used frequently in all areas of the media to investigate the coverage of issues in the press.

Research DesignResearch design is a term used to describe a number of decisions which need to be taken regarding the collection of data. According to Nnamdi Asika (2010.) research design means the structuring of investigation aimed at identifying variables and their relationships to one another. This is used for the purpose of obtaining data to enable the researcher test hypothesis or answer research questions. The research design for this study is content analysis. According to Asemah (2012) content analysis is an analysis based on the manifest content of the mass media message. Wright (1986) in Asemah (2012) describes content analysis as a research technique for the systematic classification and description of communication content according to certain, usually predetermined categories. Ajala (1999) also defines content analysis as the systematic objective and quantitative procedure devised to examine the content of recorded information. Looking at the meaning of content analysis Stocks and Hocking (1999) notes that content analysis can be used in research project that seek to describe and explain communication. Content analysis is the most suitable for this study due to the fact that it is the best way to examine newspaper reportage on an issue. Through content analysis, one can easily have an understanding of press coverage of the Boko Haram activities.


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Population and Sample of the StudyThe population of this study is for Nigeria newspapers. It is however impracticable to study all the newspapers in Nigeria due to their enormous nature, therefore three of the National Dailies have been selected to present the totality of Nigerian newspaper. The selected newspapers include Guardian Newspaper. The Nation and Vanguard. The total population for this study are the six month publication of the selected paper rich amount to five hundred and forty-six (546).Guardian is an independent newspaper established in 1983 by Alex Ibru and Stanly Macebuh, a journalist with the Daily Times Newspapers. The Guardian was a pioneer in introducing high quality journalism to Nigeria with thoughtful editorial content. It is usually produced daily and circulate nationwide with its Headquarters in Lagos, published and printed by Guardian Newspapers Limited.The Nation is also a national newspaper that has a very wide circulation in most parts of the country. It editor is Gbenga Omoloso and it is published and printed by Vintage Press Limited. According to a 2009 survey, it was the second most read paper in Nigeria.Vanguard is a daily newspaper published by Vanguard limited and it is based in Lagos, Nigeria. It was established in 1983 by Veteran Journalist Sam Amuka-Pemu. It has an online editor and also considered independent of any political control.All these newspapers were considered appropriate because they have a national circulation and are independent. These make it easier to assess their objectivity and accuracy because they are expected to be as fair as possible in their reportage.

Sampling ProcedureThe researcher adopted purposive sampling procedure. Ohoja (2003) opines that purposive sampling is when the researcher seeks certain characteristics in his sampling elements and wants to ensure that those chosen have those characteristics. He therefore eliminates other members of the population and works with those that meet his requirements.The researcher purposively selected three National dailies, care was taken by the researcher to ensure that only newspaper stories on Boko Haram were selected and those stories where from the purposively sampled newspapers.

Sample SizeTo arrive at the sample size the researcher selected on edition in a week in each of the papers, this was as a result of careful study on the data gathered of which most reports on crisis appeared in most or the Friday publications thus; Friday publication of July 2012 to December 2012 was selected and with the help of cochras formula Thus, arriving at eighty four (84) editions. This period was selected because there were other cases of Boko Haram such as granting and acceptance of amnesty. The three selected national dailies are Guardian, Vanguard, and the Nation.

July August September October November December

6 3 7 5 2 7

13 10 14 12 9 14

20 17 21 19 16 21

27 24 28 26 23 28

31 30

The calendar above shows that the month of August and no member has five (5) Fridays (ten editions) and the rest of the months have four (4) Fridays (16 editions) therefore the calendar produced seventy eight (78) issues for the study.

Research InstrumentThis study used coding parameters as instrument. The coded parameters were used to examine unit of analysis and content categories, the newspaper content was observed in relation to the research question.

Unit of AnalysisA unit is a smallest element of a content analysis but also one of the most important. On written content, the unit of analysis might be a single word, symbol, a team (a single assertion about one subject) or an entire article or story.Therefore, unit of analysis refers lo what is been studied, that constitute the population from which the sample is drawn. Babble (1986) defines it as those units that were initially described for the ultimate purpose of aggregating their characteristics in order to abstract phenomenon. For the purpose of the study, the researcher analyzed.

• Attacks• Bombing• Amnesty• Gun fire

Coding ProcedureThe variables below were chosen and coded by virtue of their values to the study

MediaAl the VanguardA2 the GuardianA3 the Nation

Variable Category


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B1fairness and balanceB2 objectivityB3 confirmed fadsB4 bias

Position/PlacementsC1 front pageC2 inside page C3 back page C4 centre page

Story GenreDl straight news storiesD2 editorials D3 feature stories D4 cartoons

IllustrationF1 picturesF2 graphs, charts and cartoons F3 no illustration

TonesG1 favourable45G2 unfavourableG3 neutral

Guide on How to Attribute the VariableMedia organizationAI the guardian newspaper; all relevant stories that are extracted from the guardian should be coded as B1.A2 the vanguard; all stories from vanguard newspaper should be coded as B2. A3 the sun; all stories from the sun should be coded as B3.

Variables CategoryBi fair/balance: a story is said to be fair and balance if all the contending sides or view points are adequately represented without disparaging comments about any individual, government, or the parties involved. Such stories should fall under Al.B2 objectivity; all stories that are factual and truthful against all odds should fall under A2.B3 confirmed facts; any story that is confirmed by a source or that is attributed should be coded as A3.

B4 SLANTS; stories that favor one side or view point at the detriments of others.

Position/PlacementC1 front page: all stories that appear on the front page of any given newspaper should be coded as El.C2 inside page: any story that is not on the front page or back page should fall under E2.C3 BACK PAGE; stories that appear on the last page of a news paper should fall under E3. STORY GENREDl STRAIGHT NEWS; any stories extracted from the straight news are coded Cl.D2 EDITORIALS: stories that are in the editorial are C2.D3 FEATURES: all stories that are feature articles should be coded as C3.D4 CARTOONS: all cartoons should be coded as C4.

Story TypesE1 all stories that are related to terrorism, BOKO HARAM activities should fall under Dl. E2 all stories that support the government policy or security agents should be coded as D2.E3 all stories about the lawmakers or amnesty that are aimed towards terrorism should be coded as D3.IllustrationsFl all stories that are accompanied with pictures of terrorist activities should be coded G1.F2 stories that are accompanied with chart or cartoons should be coded as G2. F3 stories without illustration should fall under G3.

ToneG1 FAVOURABLE; stories that shows fair reflection of terrorism without sentiments should be coded under HI.G2 UNFAVOURABLE; stories that does not reflect or give equal chances to the parties involved should fall under H3.

Research InstrumentsThe research instrument for this study is documented newspaper stories from the selected national dailies. The researcher used newspaper reportage to obtain desired data because the subject under investigation requires textual analysis.

Validity of InstrumentsThe instrument of data collection, for this study is valid because it was approved by the supervisor as being appropriate for the study. To ensure validity, the research also examined the selected newspapers to make sure they carry stories relating to the Boko Hararn activities. Method of Data CollectionIn order to generate the required data for this study, the researcher used secondary data by carefully observing the newspaper content documented inform of news stories, editorials,


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features, and cartoons. To obtain news paper editions for analysis, the researcher has visited the libraries and some of the newspaper organization that kept the records and extracts the necessary editions.

Method of Data PresentationData collected was presented in a tabular form and expressed in simple percentages; the analysis was based on observation of the tables and findings based on the coded variables. After gathering the statistical data, the researcher classified and presented them in a manner that would make the main features of the subject matter as clear as possible.In doing so, the researcher used descriptive statistical method in the analysis of data so gathered from the selected news papers content.Tejumaiye (2003) defines descriptive statistical method as a method for presenting quantitative description in a manageable form. The aim was to reduce data to manageable form so as to enhance easy interpretation and understanding.

Data PresentationTable 1: Media OrganizationsMedia Organization No. of Publication Percentage (%)

A1 The Guardian 20 25.6%

A2 The Nation 20 25.6%

A3 The Vanguard 38 48.7%

Total 78 100%

Source: compiled by the researcher, 2015.From the above table it could be seen that for the researcher to arrive at the seventy-eight issues, the researcher has selected 20 (25.6%) issues from the Guardian, 20 (25.6%) from the nation and 34(48.7%) from vanguard which has the highest number of issues studied.Table 2: Variable Category Variables Frequency Percentage (%)

B1 Balance 20 25.6%

B2 Objectivity 10 12.8%

B3 Confirmed Facts Bias 43 55.1%

- 5 6.4%

Total 78 100%

Source; compiled by the researcher. 2015.The above table 2 shows that Out of the 78 issues that were studied 20 issues which represent (25.6%) were balanced. And 10 issues which represent (12.8%) were objective, also 43 issues representing (55.1%) were confirmed facts. While 5 issues representing (6.4%) were bias. This shows that the total numbers of issues that favour the view point of objectivity, confirmed facts and balanced are more than the bias.

Table 3: Position/Placement Position Frequency Percentage (%)

C1 Front Page 26 33.3%

C2 Inside Page 19 24.3%

C3 Centre Page 13 16.6%

C4 Back Page 20 25.7%

Total 78 100%

Source; compiled by the researcher. 2015.The above table shows that out of 78 issues 26 representing (33.3%) sampled appeared on the front page of the three papers 19 issues representing (24.3%) appeared as an inside page. And 13 issues representing 16.6% appeared as center-spread of two out of the three newspapers and 20 issues representing (25.7%) were written at the back pages. The placement as analyzed above reveals that prominence was given to BOKO HARAM terrorism stories.Table 4: Story Genre Genre Frequency Percentage (%)

D1 Straight news 28 35.8%

D2 Editorials 16 20.5%

D3 Featured 24 30.7%

D4 Cartoons 10 12.8%


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Total 78 100%

Source; compiled by the researcher. 2015.The table 4 Above show that 28 issues representing (35.8%) were the number of issues under straight news stories. 16 issues which represents (20.5 %) was under editorials. 24 issues, which represent (30.7%), appeared under feature stories.The presentation shows that out of the seventy eight (78) issues, 28 (3 5.8%) were the number of straight news which signifies that journalist reported the issues at stake in haste, this was closely followed by feature stories which were 24 and the editorial which was 16.

Table 5: Story Illustration Illustration Frequency Percentage (%)

F1 Pictures 39 50%

F2 Cartoon 11 14.1%

F3 No illustration 28 35.9%

Total 78 100%

Source; compiled by the researcher. 2015.The above table portrayed 39 issues representing (50%), was published with accompanied photographs in order to boost audience understanding and shows pictures, while !1 of the total issues studied representing (14.1%) stories were accompanied with sketches and cartoons, however 28 issues (35.9%) stories did not have any form of illustration.

Table 6: ToneTone Frequency Percentage (%)

G1 Favorable 28 35.8%

G2 Unfavorable 26 33.3%

G3 Neutral 24 30.7%

Total 78 100%

Source; compiled by the researcher. 2015.

From the table 6 above 35.8% were the ones that showed fair reflections of issues without sentiments. While 33.3% were stories that give opportunity to some Boko Haram suspects to explain their grievances and 30.7% stories were neutral, as they present facts from the sides of government and Boko Haram members for reader to judge.

Discussion of FindingsThe data that was attached, coded and presented according to various categories such as balance objective, confirmed fact, bias, favorable unfavorable, and neutral were analyzed as shorts below.

BalanceThe Nation Septembers 29th, 2012, page 6 had on issue titled Boko Haram: immigration officer arrested and why Kabiru Sokoto, 30 others are yet to face trials. In this edition, the reporter revealed both sides of the story by giving reasons why some Boko Haram suspects, that has been arrested arc yet to face trial. Furthermore, the victories of Boko Haram attacks were equally mention. This reveals the role of balance reportage.

ObjectivityThe Guardian newspaper of July 19, 2012 has a story caption; "Gunmen Killed Don, and Council Scribe in Borno". In this report, since the journalist was unable to identify the group, the so called "Gunmen" belongs to; he tagged them as "gunmen" unlike some other newspapers that calls the "gunmen" Boko Haram members because the incidents occur in Borno state. This happens, to be a frontline of Boko Haram field of operation.

Confirmed FactsThe Vanguard newspaper of November 16, 2012 has a bold headline titled; "No Negotiations with Boko Haram-Gej" the report was a confirmed fact because, the president makes it a national declaration and it was reported on both the prints and electronic media. The headline simply quotes the president words as it was stated with facts without sentiment or unnecessary additions.

FavourableThe Guardian of October 26.20 12 in a report caption: "How to stop Boko Haram" the reporter script a favorable reportage on the citizen side by source rating measures and that should be taking to curb the menace of terrorism caused by the Islamic sect Boko Haram. Furthermore, the reporter hinged his measures "on eight areas of reforms, some of which were Administration of justice, Civil service, security system, the press, education and employment opportunities that needed urgent attention for peace, progress and national unity.


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UnfavourableThe Vanguard of September 28, 2010 has a report captioned: Victory against Boko Haram in sight from the screaming headline. It can be deduced that, the government is waging a deadly war against the Boko Haram sect.In the news story, the reporter narrates how the Boko Haram sect spokesman was traced and killed. He equally narrates the events that "led to the captures of the sect accountant'. At the page (9) lines of the same edition, the reporter elucidate on "tactical measures" that should be taking in order to "make living unbearable for the sect members, friends and even family members".

NeutralThe Nation newspaper of November 9, 20!2, has a caption; "controversy trails Boko Haram's dialogue proposal" in the news story, the reporter starts with a questions lead to show his neutral position. In his words, "should federal government dialogue with Islamic sect Boko Haram, which last Thursday waved the olive branch?".The reporter put the question to the audience or readers opinion to decide. 7th the story neutrality was well portrayed through the lead.

Validation of Research QuestionsThe research questions revised in the chapter one of this work were answered by the data that was presented and analyzed.

Research Question 1: Have the Print Media Report the Boko Haram Insurgence Effectively?The level of attention can be seen through table 3 data presentation. In the position or placement of Boko Haram stories, terrorism and Boko Haram stories has a front page placement frequency of 28, both which is 33.3% of the total newspaper that were studied and analyzed.Furthermore, 25.7% of the news stories equally make the back page of this stories, while the inside page reveals a 24.3% placement; the center-spread contains 16.6% of Boko Haram stories. With data, that reveals a 33.3% front page placement in the newspaper studied, it can easily be deduced that. Boko Haram activities extract a high level of attention from the print media and this goes a long way to show how effective they have been in this insurgence.

Research Question 2: To What Extent has the Print Media been Objective, Timely, and Adequate in their Reportage of Boko Haram Activities?Through the course of data presentation and analysis, the researcher discovers that under the variable category that 25.6% of the total newspapers that were studied and analyzed had a

“balance” coverage or reportage of the Boko Haram activities While 55.1% of the reportage portrayed or reveals confirm facts, which the citizens can easily confirmed.Not only were those, 12.8% of the stories equally described to be objective while 6.4% were perceived to be bias. Above all the 55.1% confirmed facts revealed that the print media hive been objective, timely and adequate in their reportage of the Boko Haram activities

Research Question 3: How Well had the Print Media Played their Surveillance Function in the Reportage of Boko Haram Activities?Through the data presented, in table four which covers the story square, the frequency of news report there are coded as straight news was the highest, while meaning it the features stories took a second place in the frequency rating not only that, many editorials written under the period of this research study equally gives prominence to matters relating to terrorist and Boko Haram issued. Furthermore, some courteous studied under this period; equal also contains some falling elements that portrayed the generousness and prominence given to Boko Haram activities.

Research Question 4: Have the Various Print Media Been Biased In Their Reportage of Boko Haram Insurgence?Under the variable category, table 2 comprehensively portrayed that, the various print media has been captured in their reportage as the figure of frequency reveals 43 as the confirmed facts which represents 25% of the papers coded. Also, objectivity has 10 which represent 12.8% while the frequency of bias is 5 which represent 6.4% of the papers studied. These figures reveal that the confirmed facts, balance and objectivity are in the majority which supersedes the level of bias. It can be deduced that the papers studied have not been biased in their reportage of the BOKO HARAM insurgence.

FindingsThe Vanguards the Nation and the Guardian newspapers covers a lot of issues that borders on Boko Haram activities. The editions that were analyzed during the course of this research study reveal a balance and fair overage on both the government sides and the Boko Haram sect.On the other hand, the issues of bias were equally revealed in the station through a feature writer Hannatu Musewa in which she complained bitterly about the "unjust" treatment given to them, Boko Haram sect members by the government security agents, in her opinion, the government is creating more widows and "orphans and will demand '"Vengeance" on the society in the nearest future.That is notwithstanding, the reportage of the print media during this research, the study has portrayed objectivity, accuracy, confirmed facts, fair and balance reportage. Also the proper placement of the Boko Haram activities, revealed the high level of prominence, proximity and competency showed by the three national dailies that were studied. Sola (2010) affirmed this in his study that conflicts in Nigeria have received maximum media coverage. Apart from the prominence given to the issue of terrorism and Boko Haram activities by the newspapers, timelines is another conspicuous perception noted in their reportage. It can easily be geared from


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the data gather from the dailies, the consistency and persistency of reportage given to the issue of terrorism in the country. Timeliness is an essential criterion that has the potential and enormous distractive element of reinforcing the force of news reportage in the minds of the reader.Okunna (1989, P.46) affirmed that, "the quality of newness is the most fundamental of the criteria for determining what should qualify as news. This element of "newness" can be decoded in the newspaper coverage of Boko- Haram activities.The Guardian and Vanguard, splash the front page of their newspaper with roaring headline that depicts the newness of the horrendous activities of Boko Haram members. Although some scholars and political pundits argues against the undue media coverage given Boko Haram activities but the media has an obligation to perform their social responsibility theory which expect them to bring to the consciousness of the public impending dangers due to this obligation, the media cannot afford to shy away from enlightening the public, by giving the society updates on news wondering events that occurs around them.This research findings has revealed the tremendous role, played by the three newspapers studied by the researcher in given a prior and balance coverage to the issue of Boko Haram in Nigeria.

ConclusionFrom the findings so far, the mass media particularly the print despite attacks by the Boko Haram sect has helped immeasurably in building courageous attitudes in people in response to the threat post by level of frequency given to the activities of sect, choice of words, the use of illustrations editorials and or relevant methods put together to pass the message to their readers.In this plight, we can say that the print media have been adequate, objective, and fair and balance. They have also played their surveillance functions to the society thereby carrying out their social responsibility objectively.

RecommendationsIn line with the findings of this study, the researcher wishes to make following recommendations, the print media should strive to avoid sentiments such as emphasizing so much on the group been attacked by the sect as this can instigate more crisis amongst people in the society. The media as the watch dog of the society should be firm in carrying out their Surveillance function .Some members of the society perceive the media as giving too much attention on to the Boko Haram activities; this perception can be minimized by the print media which will go a long way in reducing the level of prominence and frequency giving to the Boko Haram insurgence in Nigeria.The mass media should embark on enlightenment/educative programmes on the dangers and consequences of their actions (B H) on the social economic development of Nigeria.Government should strive as a matter of urgency in providing employment opportunities for the youth or youth empowerment programme. This will serve as pinnacle to the level of unemployed youth who have resulted to insurgence for survival. An idea mind is the devil's workshop.Timeliness is a very important criterion of news worthiness at such; the print media should always ensure that the activities are reported promptly.

Too much coverage or emphasis on the attacks should be avoided instead, emphasis should be on dialogue, arrest, and discovery, of their broke out as these could reduce tension.The Nigerian mass media at large should strike a balance to improve performance on the reportage of terrorism, possibly set a guide on how it should be reported.

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Documents

AN ASSESMENT OF THE REPORTAGE OF BOOK HARAM … · balance reportage. The Boko Haram sect which forbids western education has caused so much havoc since 2008 till date. They have