National Security: Social Media and the Freedom of Expression

Abstract

This paper “National Security: Social Media and the Freedom of Expression” explores the difficulties in finding a balance
between security and freedom of expression as a fundamental human right. The security situation in Nigeria today has
brought the country face-to-face with the need to work out a balance between these two important variables in any
democratic nation such as Nigeria. Proponents and opponents of this have argued their cases in various forums, but the need
to find this vital balance remains. The paper employs Ad hoc Balancing Theory as a way to create a balance between these
variables. The paper argues that freedom of expression and the public's right to know can be adjusted in extreme situations
that put the national security of Nigeria in grave danger. The paper concludes that security and freedom of expression are
both important for the survival and development of Nigeria as a united entity. It recommends among other things that
security supersedes freedom of expression. Media literacy should be introduced at all levels of education in Nigeria, as every
Nigerian with smart devices (phones, computers, etc.) are potential media content creators and consumers via social media
(citizen journalist). Through this policy of media literacy, it is hoped that the vast majority of Nigerians on social media will
know and apply responsible and security-conscious media ethics as well as self-censorship where necessary in the interest of
national security.