Journalist Niran Adedokun has raised concerns regarding the standards of objectivity in Nigerian television journalism, specifically pointing to the interviewing style of Rufai Oseni.
Adedokun argued that while Nigerian television requires interviewers with knowledge and courage, there is a tendency for journalists to cross the line by bolstering a guest’s arguments or imposing personal opinions on the audience. This behaviour, he noted, creates a significant risk of perceived partisanship.
The critique, presented in a recent commentary by Niran Adedokun, highlights the delicate balance required to maintain professional neutrality in a highly polarised political environment.
The risk of perceived partisanship
Adedokun emphasised that a journalist’s primary responsibility is to facilitate a dialogue rather than to act as an extension of the person being interviewed. He cautioned that by “completing the argument” for a guest, an interviewer risks losing the trust of the viewing public.
“When a journalist crosses that thin line, he risks creating the impression of partisanship, even though he is not necessarily [partisan],” Adedokun stated. This distinction is critical in a media landscape where the perception of bias can be as damaging to a news organisation’s credibility as actual bias.
The commentary touches on a recurring debate within the Nigerian media industry regarding the distinction between being a hard-hitting interviewer and being an advocate. While many viewers praise journalists who confront public officials, there is growing concern that the line between interrogation and endorsement is becoming increasingly blurred.
Such perceived bias affects more than just individual journalists; it impacts the wider credibility of the media. In a democratic society, the media serves as a watchdog, but its effectiveness relies on the audience’s belief in its impartiality. If prominent interviewers are seen to be steering conversations toward specific ideological outcomes, it may lead to increased public cynicism regarding the media’s role in governance.
As Nigerian political discourse becomes more fragmented, the pressure on journalists to take sides remains high. However, Adedokun’s observations suggest that the preservation of journalistic distance is essential for maintaining the integrity of television news programmes. The debate over media ethics and the role of high-profile anchors continues to shape the standards of newsrooms across the country, with professional bodies frequently called upon to reinforce the principles of neutrality and fairness.
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