Title: Accessing The Fact-Checking Platforms And Their Role In Combating Fake News In Nigeria
Authors: Olagoke Olawale Israel
Volume: 9
Issue: 8
Pages: 222-227
Publication Date: 2025/08/28
Abstract:
This study is on accessing the fact-checking platforms and their role in combating fake news in Nigeria. The study adopted a survey research methodology. The population of the study are media practitioners from the Lagos Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ). The study made use of purposive sampling technique and a sample of 120 journalists were selected for the study. The study adopted research questionnaire as research instruments. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 23.0 software. The study made used of descriptive statistics involving frequency tables and percentages. The result of the study revealed that the most commonly used fact-check platforms by journalists in Nigeria are Factcheck hub, Africa check, Dubawa and News verifier Africa. Findings in this study also revealed that some of the challenges journalists face when using fact-checking platforms in their work include journalists not having enough time to verify every claim thoroughly using fact-checking platforms due to strict deadlines, low level of awareness of the range of fact-checking tools available, poor internet connectivity and threats, online harassment, or pressure from powerful figures. The study recommended that media industry should engage in training and retraining of journalists and media practitioners on the usage of fact-checking tools and platforms to enhance their productivity.