In this modern era, where the media holds unparalleled power to shape opinions, influence perceptions, and even dictate societal narratives, Nigeria faces a critical challenge: the rise of mercantile journalism, commonly known as “cash and carry” journalism. This insidious form of reporting, driven by financial incentives rather than the pursuit of truth, has profound and far-reaching implications, particularly in a society where illiteracy and gullibility are rampant.
The media’s ability to influence public perception is undeniable. Globally, it serves not merely as a conduit for information but as a powerful force that molds the collective consciousness. In Nigeria, this power has often been wielded in ways that have entrenched biases, manipulated public opinion, and shaped the nation’s trajectory. Over the years, the media has played a pivotal role not just in reporting events but in framing them, thus guiding how the public understands both national and international issues.
Consider, for instance, the way political narratives have been crafted in Nigeria. The media has, at various points in the nation’s history, been instrumental in either elevating or tarnishing the reputations of political figures. The portrayal of the Nigerian Civil War is a case in point. Different factions utilized media outlets to push their respective agendas, shaping the public’s understanding of the conflict. Today, we witness a similar phenomenon with the coverage of elections, government policies, and political scandals. Often, the way these issues are presented reflects the interests of those who can afford to pay for favorable coverage, rather than the interests of the public.
This is where mercantile journalism has found fertile ground. The practice of paying journalists to report favorably on certain individuals or issues has become alarmingly widespread. Once-respected journalists have been reduced to mere mouthpieces for incompetent politicians who wield their financial clout to control the narrative. As a result, the media landscape in Nigeria is increasingly characterized by a scarcity of truth and a proliferation of propaganda, misinformation, and outright falsehoods.
The impact of this trend is particularly concerning in a society like Nigeria, where a large portion of the population is either illiterate or lacks access to independent sources of information. These individuals are especially vulnerable to manipulation, as they rely heavily on the media to inform their understanding of the world around them. When the media is compromised, their perceptions are distorted, often leading to misguided beliefs and decisions that can have far-reaching consequences for the nation as a whole.
This was not always the state of affairs in Nigeria. The country once boasted a proud tradition of journalism, with figures like Dele Giwa who, driven by a commitment to truth, paid the ultimate price. Others faced imprisonment, harassment, and even death for standing by their principles. These were the true journalists, who understood that their role was to serve as the watchdogs of society, holding the powerful accountable and providing the public with accurate, unbiased information.
Today, however, journalism in Nigeria is under siege. The sharp decline in the standard of living has severely impacted journalists’ ability to maintain their integrity. With salaries that can barely cover basic living expenses, many journalists are left with little choice but to accept “brown envelope” inducements from politicians and government officials. This practice has led to a media environment where the focus has shifted from exposing the truth to praise-singing and masking the failures of those in power.
The consequences of a compromised media are dire. When the media becomes a tool for the powerful rather than a voice for the people, democracy suffers. The public is deprived of the information they need to make informed decisions, and the accountability that is essential to good governance is eroded. In Nigeria, this has led to a situation where corruption and incompetence are allowed to flourish unchecked, while the voices of those who dare to speak out are drowned in a sea of praise-singers and sycophants.
Yet, amid this bleak landscape, there remains a glimmer of hope. There are still journalists, bloggers and media practitioners in Nigeria who refuse to descend to the level of mercantile journalism. These individuals continue to uphold the highest standards of the profession, rejecting financial inducements.
These steadfast journalists understand that their duty is not to serve the interests of the powerful but to uphold the truth, no matter how inconvenient or dangerous it may be. They recognize that journalism, at its core, is about more than just reporting the news; it is about shining a light in the darkest corners of society, giving a voice to the voiceless, and holding those in power accountable. In a landscape where the allure of financial gain has corrupted many, these journalists stand as beacons of integrity, reminding us of the essential role that a free and independent press plays in a functioning democracy.
The challenges they face are immense. The pressure to conform, to join the ranks of those who have traded their integrity for financial security, is relentless. The cost of living continues to rise, and the financial rewards of staying true to their principles are often minimal. Yet, these journalists persist, driven by a deep sense of duty to their profession and to the society they serve. They understand that the future of Nigeria depends on a well-informed public, one that can see through the propaganda and lies and hold their leaders to account.
The plight of these journalists also speaks to a broader issue within Nigerian society: the sharp decline in the quality of life over the years. As the economy has faltered and opportunities have dwindled, many professionals, not just journalists, have found themselves struggling to maintain their standards of living. The cost of education, healthcare, and basic necessities has skyrocketed, leaving many with no choice but to seek alternative means of supplementing their incomes. In this context, the allure of a “brown envelope” becomes all the more powerful, as it offers a way to bridge the gap between meager salaries and the rising cost of living.
However, this decline in the standard of living does not excuse the erosion of journalistic integrity; it only highlights the urgent need for systemic change. The government, media organizations, and civil society must work together to create an environment where journalists can do their jobs without fear of financial insecurity or political retribution. This includes providing better salaries, ensuring job security, and offering protections for those who dare to speak truth to power. It also means fostering a culture that values truth and accountability, rather than one that rewards sycophancy and deception.
The role of the public in this process is also crucial. As consumers of media, Nigerians must demand more from their journalists and their media outlets. They must be discerning in their consumption of news, seeking out sources that prioritize accuracy and integrity over sensationalism and propaganda. They must also support those journalists and media outlets that remain committed to the truth, whether through financial contributions, advocacy, or simply by amplifying their voices. In a media landscape dominated by those who would rather deceive than inform, the support of the public is vital in sustaining those who refuse to compromise their principles.
Moreover, education plays a critical role in combating the influence of mercantile journalism. By improving literacy rates and ensuring that all Nigerians have access to quality education, we can equip the population with the tools they need to critically assess the information they receive. An informed and educated public is less likely to be swayed by misinformation and propaganda, and more likely to hold their leaders and the media to account.
In reflecting on the current state of journalism in Nigeria, it is clear that we are at a crossroads. The choice before us is stark: either we allow mercantile journalism to continue its corrosive influence on our society, or we take a stand to restore the integrity of the press. The path forward will not be easy, but it is necessary if we are to build a society where truth prevails over falsehood, and where the media serves the people rather than the powerful.
As we navigate this critical juncture, we must remember the legacy of those who came before us—journalists who risked everything to bring us the truth. Their sacrifices should not be in vain. Instead, they should inspire us to fight for a media landscape that honors their commitment to integrity and accountability. It is only by doing so that we can hope to preserve the essential role of the press in our democracy, and ensure that future generations inherit a Nigeria where the truth is not a commodity to be bought and sold, but a right to be protected and upheld.
Hon. Chimazuru Nnadi-Oforgu
“Duruebube Ndukaku III of Ihiagwa”
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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