Who speaks for the poor? Poverty, Human Rights, Social Justice and Access to Media in Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria faces a major poverty crisis with more than half of the population living in extreme poverty. This conceptual paper delves into the critical issues surrounding the rights of the poor in Nigeria especially in regard their access to media, freedom of expression, and the broader implications for social justice and poverty alleviation. The central question explored in this study is whether the right to freedom of expression and the right to be heard by the poor are recognized and upheld within the Nigerian media landscape as a fundamental human right. Furthermore, this paper examines the extent to which the media has contributed to addressing poverty prevalence in Nigeria and the impactful ways in which this contribution has manifested. Relying on the analytical and critical methodology of study, the paper argues that access to information is a fundamental human right, and the poor, who face multifaceted inequalities, must have their rights protected. Doing so, the paper contends will enhance their capacity to escape poverty, since information and knowledge play pivotal roles in poverty reduction. Emphasis is laid on the importance of granting the poor adequate access to information through available and relevant media, to enable them make informed decisions and choices that can lead to their emancipation from poverty.

Keywords: Human Rights, Media Access, Poverty Reduction, Social Justice, Freedom of Expression

DOI: 10.7176/JPID/63-04

Publication date: April 30^th 2024