Flattening the Curve of Fake News in the Epoch of Infodemic in the Nigerian News Media Industry

Abstract

This study examined the incidence of Fake News in Nigeria through focus group discussion with 25 participants. It was established that although fake news has been around from time immemorial, discussants did not consider it infodemic in the country. The study established the prevalence of fake news in Nigeria. Interestingly, it noted that infodemic is still a new lexicon in Nigeria as many of the discussants, who have at least first degree certificate in different fields of endeavour, heard of the word for the first time during the discussion. The study established that the negative impact of fake news on the Nigerian society is limited, in accordance with Mass Media Limited Effect Theory and research on Uses and Gratification Theory that established that media consumers are able to discriminate in media consumption. It also established that average people are gullible victims of the fake news but also that fake news other consumers seek out information that aligns with their beliefs to fulfill information needs. This conclusion is based on qualitative information obtained from participants which align with the fact that although man is a rational being who is critical in the choice of content to consume that gratifies a need and so will readily dispense media content (Fake News) that offers no reward, and can also be influenced to an extent but it in a limited way.