By David Onwuchekwa
These days, the media landscape has witnessed an increasing influx of individuals from outside the traditional journalism field.
They include political influencers, celebrities, bloggers, and businesspeople taking up space in newsrooms, on-air broadcasts, and online platforms.
While some argue that this diversity of voices reflects the democratization of information, the unchecked participation of non-media professionals in the industry is having troubling consequences.
The media is not just another industry; it is the watchdog of democracy, the mirror of society, and a critical tool for shaping public opinion.
When those without proper training or understanding of journalistic ethics flood the space, the integrity of that tool is compromised. We begin to see a shift from fact-based reporting to sensationalism, unverified information, and, in many cases, outright misinformation.
The rise of fake news is not just a buzzword, it is a reality fueled in part by those who use media platforms to push personal or political agendas, often without regard for truth and accountability or even what will be the consequences to society at large.
The impact on professional journalists is equally concerning. Trained practitioners find themselves edged out by influencers with large followings but little to no commitment to the standards of the craft. And people out there generalize and call both the trained and untrained journalists, ‘Ndị Press’ (Pressmen) without knowing the borders.
This not only affects the quality of journalism but also diminishes public trust in the media as a whole.
When anyone poses as a journalist, whereas he is not, the line between fact and fiction blurs and with it, the public’s ability to make informed decisions diminishes.
Does an untrained journalist know the TRUE application of gatekeeping and balancing? The answer is no.This is a call for responsibility.
Governments must act now not by stifling freedom of expression but by implementing clear standards for media practice.
Licensing and accreditation should be enforced to ensure that those reporting news understand the weight of that responsibility. Media literacy programmes are also crucial, both for current practitioners and the general public, to foster a more discerning audience.
Furthermore, governments should strengthen institutions that support professional journalism, from training schools to independent press councils. In an age where anyone with a smartphone can “go live,” it is more important than ever to draw a line between commentary and reportage, between influence and information.
The media must remain a pillar of democracy, not a playground for amateurs. The future of informed citizenry, credible journalism, and societal cohesion depends on our ability to protect and professionalize the media space before it loses its purpose altogether.
Time for action is now because tomorrow may be too late.
