A Call for Responsible Journalism and the Urgent Need for Professional Sanity in the Media Space:
Recently, the credibility of journalism—an institution rooted in truth, integrity, and responsibility—has come under serious attack, not only from external forces but also from within its own ranks. The rise of misinformation, careless reporting, and unverified claims circulated by individuals claiming to be journalists is both troubling and embarrassing. When someone posing as a journalist publishes information with no factual basis or relevance, it raises a fundamental question: What has become of the noble profession of journalism?
The situation worsens when we examine these self-proclaimed media practitioners closely. They behave as if they are the information itself, forgetting that journalism is a profession governed by standards, ethics, and rules—not personal feelings, assumptions, or sensationalism. Some act as if just being in the media grants them the authority to speak without verification, spread unconfirmed reports, and present personal opinions as facts. This behavior—without any sugarcoating—is unprofessional, irresponsible, and unacceptable.
A journalist, especially one who claims to be trained, certified, or affiliated, is expected to uphold principles such as fairness, objectivity, accuracy, and factual integrity. A true journalist investigates, verifies, analyzes, and cross-checks before publishing. But what do we see today? Rumors, distortions, chaos, and confusion—all while hiding behind the title “journalist.” Such conduct damages public trust and tarnishes the reputation of journalism itself.
The proliferation of self-proclaimed journalists—those who neither understand journalism ethics nor its responsibilities—has worsened an already fragile situation. They claim the title but reject the discipline. They bring noise instead of news, chaos instead of clarity, and confusion instead of credible information. When a journalist becomes a source of misinformation, society is at risk because journalism should serve as the watchdog of democracy, not the promoter of falsehood.
This calls for serious reflection, both individually and institutionally. The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Niger State Chapter, as the body responsible for regulating the profession, has a duty to act. It cannot remain passive while journalism’s image is tarnished. The NUJ must step up efforts to address misconduct, enforce disciplinary measures, and clearly differentiate trained journalists from social media opportunists masquerading as “media practitioners.”
There is an urgent need for more robust verification mechanisms, stricter membership criteria, and ongoing monitoring of those claiming to represent the profession. Journalism is not an open invitation for everyone. It isn’t a playground for clout chasers, political tools, gossip spreaders, or untrained commentators seeking relevance. Those abusing the title must be called out, corrected, and sanctioned where appropriate.
The public also plays a crucial role. Society must begin questioning sources, demanding accuracy, and refusing to accept all information blindly. When people stop celebrating unprofessional conduct, its influence diminishes. When audiences reject irresponsible journalists, the space becomes cleaner and more trustworthy.
To journalists themselves—especially those who have forgotten the weight of their responsibilities—this is a wake-up call. Journalism isn’t just about posting updates; it’s about shaping public opinion, informing national discourse, and upholding democratic values. If you call yourself a journalist, then act like one. Respect the ethics. Uphold the truth. Be accountable for what you put into the public domain.
To the self-styled journalists who ignore verification, dismiss professionalism, and lack commitment to ethics—it’s time to elevate your standards or step aside. Journalism is too vital to be polluted with carelessness and ego.
And to the NUJ, the time to act is now. The profession requires cleansing, restructuring, and stricter enforcement. Journalism must be protected from those damaging its reputation.
A profession that has produced icons, shaped nations, and defended democracy cannot afford to be entrusted to undisciplined actors. Journalism must rise again to its rightful stature: credible, respected, responsible, and honorable.
You cannot practice journalism based on emotions.
Written by :-
Amb. Abdullahi Mujahid
21st November, 2025
