ADHERENCE LEVEL OF JOURNALIST TO JOURNALISM CODE OF CONDUCTS

CHAPTER ONE

1.0      INTRODUCTION

1.1        BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

 Among the many problems clustering around journalism practice in Nigeria is the low level of adherence to journalism code of conduct. Most journalists are often found breaking the rules of the media profession. Journalism practice in Nigeria is accompanied with great controversies especially in relation to ethical regulation and adherence to professional code of conduct. Journalism remains an esteemed profession that has a lot to offer in the reformation of society; unfortunately, in Nigeria, it has become an all-comers affair.

Journalism means writing for newspapers or magazines. It is the communication of information through writing in periodicals and newspapers. The people have an inborn desire to know what’s novel or new. This curiosity is satisfied by the journalists through their writing in the newspapers and journals on current affairs and news.

Journalism code of conduct here refers to the principles that regulate the activities of the media profession. The media is expected to operate within the ambit of a code of conduct as the practice is regarded as having an underlying mission: to serve and safeguard public interest. However, given the fact that freedom of the media and of expression, as well as the right to access information, are an essential prerequisite for democracy, journalism ethics seek to protect the fundamental rights of individuals and ensure the maintenance of harmony. Nevertheless, there is little research on the adherence level of journalism code of conduct. This can partly be attributed to the media institutions concentrating on the bottom line hence their reluctance to commission research on adherence to media code of conduct.

Journalism code of conduct discourse is integral in journalism practice and development. Agbese (2010), observes that the Nigerian press organization Code of Honour which outline journalist’s duties and conduct, is to be adhered to by journalist’s discretion and has no language of enforcement.