The recent public disagreement between Bayo Onanuga, the Presidential Spokesman, and Rufai Oseni, an Arise Television personality, has sharply focused attention on a critical issue plaguing Nigerian media: the proliferation of “quacks” in journalism practice and the apparent disregard for the existing regulatory framework. This contention underscores a deep-seated concern about the professional standards, ethics, and overall integrity of journalism in Nigeria, which has significant implications for national stability and public discourse.
The crux of the matter, as highlighted by Mr. Onanuga, rests on the Nigerian Press Council Act, which prescribes a minimum educational standard—specifically, at least a Diploma in Journalism—for professional practice. This law is foundational, designed to ensure that those who take on the crucial role of informing and shaping public opinion possess the requisite training, ethical grounding, and understanding of the profession’s moral philosophies.
The cases of individuals like Rufai Oseni, reportedly trained in Anatomy, and Dele Momodu, who studied Yoruba language, illustrate the present reality where academic background outside of journalism has not prevented prominent roles in reputable media houses. While practical experience is invaluable, the argument raised is that it cannot substitute for formal training in the principles, ethics, and social responsibility of journalism.
Journalism, at its core, is a profession entrusted with the Social Responsibility Theory—the duty to provide truth, context, and a platform for diverse voices, ultimately aiming to stabilize society, not inflame it. Untrained practitioners, lacking a deep understanding of ethical frameworks, gatekeeping processes, and the long-term impact of their broadcasts or publications, risk misusing their platform. Their actions can inadvertently or deliberately amplify conflict, disseminate misinformation, and erode public trust—the very definition of practicing contrary to peace journalism principles.
Mr. Onanuga’s assertion that a non-adherence to the law risks setting the country “ablaze” is a stark warning against the potential for unchecked media practice to exacerbate existing social and political tensions. A journalist who lacks grounding in media law, ethics, and the nuanced application of facts can easily transgress the line between robust interrogation and irresponsible confrontation, thereby “messing up with personality on air” and creating unnecessary social friction.
The existence of a law without its consistent application creates an environment where professional standards are optional. The time is long overdue for the Nigerian Press Council to move beyond being a nominal entity and to enforce its laws rigorously.
Enforcement is not about stifling free speech; it is about safeguarding the profession and the public. It ensures that those who operate the levers of public information are qualified and accountable to a set of professional and moral standards designed for the good of the society.
We must make a clear distinction: working in a media house does not automatically confer the title of a “better journalist.” True professional journalism requires a deliberate mastery of its intricate moral philosophies, its history, its legal constraints, and its profound societal role.
To achieve genuine peace journalism in Nigeria, the Press Council must act decisively to:
Re-validate and license practitioners based on the mandated minimum professional qualifications.
Sanction media organizations that knowingly employ unqualified personnel in core journalistic roles in violation of the Act.
Promote continuous professional development and ethical training for all working journalists.
The debate sparked by Mr. Onanuga is not merely a personal spat; it is a vital professional intervention. It is a necessary call to order for a profession whose integrity is paramount to the health of Nigeria’s democracy. We need to elevate the gatekeeping function and ensure that the vital responsibility of journalism is entrusted only to those who are formally equipped and ethically committed to its highest ideals.
Liberty Andrew JP, a media practitioner writes from Jalingo, Taraba State
