Beyond the Headlines: Nigerian Journalists Confront the Complex Landscape of Truth-Telling

The second edition of the Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) Media Roundtable, held recently at the Lekki Campus of Lagos Business School, focused on the theme ‘Beyond Critique: The Importance of Constructive Media Engagement in Governance and Nation-Building.’

Analysing the role of journalists in ensuring accountability, transparency, and development in Nigeria, the event opened with Dr. Peter Bamkole, PAU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Admin), noting the importance of reliable and trustworthy reporting. 

He stated, “Truthful narratives promote constructive engagement instead of negativity.”

The panel of media professionals, including Magnus Onyibe (Public Policy Analyst and Author), Fisayo Soyombo (Founder, Foundation for Investigative Journalism), Sherriff Quadry (Broadcast Journalist, Nigeria Info), Margaret Agada-Mba (Lecturer, PAU), and Jonathan James Lyamgohn (Media Consultant), spoke on the multifaceted challenges of journalism in Nigeria. 

Moderated by Onyinyechi Aderibigbe (Nigeria Info) and Elizabeth Musa (Business Day), the panellists discussed how journalists must serve as watchdogs, acting as agents of change and intermediaries between the government and the public.

Sheriff Quadry reiterated the difficulty faced by Nigerian journalists. “Even when you know your ethics and are committed to your responsibilities, it’s often an uphill battle to do your job,” he said. 

This challenge, Quadry noted, is compounded by the perception among public officials that they are not to be questioned or scrutinised. Journalists, therefore, must exhibit extraordinary resilience and sacrifice to ensure they fulfil their role as custodians of truth.

Panelists at the PAU Media Roundtable

A valid point raised by Fisayo Soyombo was the tendency of appointed officials to view media reportage as an attempt to undermine their success. “It takes more than courage,” he said, “it requires a strong commitment to education, sacrifice, and a deep sense of responsibility to overcome the complex sector of Nigerian governance.”

He argued that the solution to harassment is “more journalism,” and stressed that the journalist’s core duty is uncovering the truth.

Margaret Agada-Mba raised a question about whether the government sees the media as partners in national development. She argued that effective media engagement could be very useful in driving societal progress.

Despite these challenges, the importance of the media in nation-building was reiterated throughout the discussion, exploring how effective media engagement can drive positive societal change. 

Jonathan James Lyamgohn spoke on the importance of maintaining respect, patriotism, and press independence while engaging with the government. He reminded the audience that journalists are the “fourth estate of the realm” and that “our ultimate employer is the people.” 

This perspective highlighted the responsibility journalists hold in shaping public opinion and holding power to account.

He argued that while there must be room for constructive criticism, journalists must also be mindful of the broader implications of their reporting. A delicate balance must be maintained between transparency and the potential harm that can come from misrepresenting sensitive issues, particularly in a diverse society like Nigeria.

Magnus Onyibe further advised journalists to uphold integrity when collaborating with government bodies, stressing that this balance is essential for safeguarding press freedom while enabling constructive dialogue. 

Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun added that cultural sensitivities should not hinder press freedom, reminding journalists of their role as truth-tellers and the importance of mentoring future generations.

Negative reportage should not be sensationalised, but presented with care to avoid escalating tensions or public unrest.

The Role of Digital Technology and Fact-Checking

The conversation shifted to the impact of digital technology on journalism. It was noted that the rise of digital platforms and social media has disrupted traditional journalism, often leading to the spread of misinformation. 

This has further complicated the job of professional journalists, who now face competition from unregulated sources of information. Citizen journalism is on the rise, but it comes with its own set of risks. The public often cannot distinguish between trained journalists and those who simply present news without verifying facts.

In this context, the importance of fact-checking was stressed. Speakers urged journalists to take extra care in verifying information, particularly in the fast-changing digital world where false news can spread rapidly.

“It’s important that news organisations invest in fact-checking mechanisms, because once misinformation is out there, the damage is often irreversible.”

As the event drew to a close, there was a consensus on the need for the media to maintain its role as a gatekeeper of information while being mindful of the powerful influence it holds over public opinion. “We must be transparent and honest, but also sensitive to the context in which we operate,” Quadry said. 

“Journalists in Nigeria cannot afford to operate without caution, especially given the nature of our political and social environment.”

In Nigeria, where the line between critique and defamation can be blurred, journalists must continue to act as the voice of the people while scaling the complexities of reporting in a politically charged atmosphere. 

The PAU Media Roundtable called for a resuscitated focus on constructive media engagement that supports national development while holding those in power accountable.

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