ASSESSING THE INFLUENCE OF FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT ( FOIA) IN ENHANCING THE WATCHDOG ROLE OF PRINT MEDIA IN ADAMAWA STATE (A CASE STUDY OF SCOPE IN NEWSPAPER YOLA)

This study assessed the influence of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in enhancing the watchdog role of print media in Adamawa State, with particular reference to Scope Newspaper Yola. The study was conducted to determine the extent to which the FOIA aids journalists in accessing government-held information, promotes fair, balanced, accurate, and objective reporting, and the major challenges faced by journalists in utilizing the Act effectively. The study adopted the Social Responsibility Theory as its theoretical framework, emphasizing the role of the media in promoting accountability, transparency, and public interest. A descriptive survey research design was employed, while data were collected through the use of questionnaires administered to staff of Scope Newspaper Yola. A sample size of 55 respondents was derived from a population of 64 staff members using the Taro Yamane formula. Out of the 55 questionnaires distributed, 52 were retrieved and found valid for analysis. Data collected were analyzed using simple percentages and mean statistics based on a five-point Likert scale. Findings revealed that the FOIA has positively contributed to investigative journalism by improving fact verification, transparency, and objectivity in media reporting. However, the study also found that journalists still face several challenges in accessing public records, including bureaucratic delays, reluctance of government agencies to release information, lack of awareness of FOIA rights, and fear of intimidation or retaliation. The study concluded that although the FOIA possesses significant potential for strengthening the watchdog role of print media, its effectiveness in Adamawa State remains limited due to poor implementation and inadequate institutional compliance. The study therefore recommended strict enforcement of FOIA provisions, increased training and awareness programs for journalists, reduction of bureaucratic bottlenecks, and stronger legal protection for media practitioners to ensure effective utilization of the Act.