Title: Investigative Journalism And Political Corruption In Nigeria: Unveiling The Impact And Challenges
Authors: Olagoke Olawale Isreal
Volume: 9
Issue: 5
Pages: 418-422
Publication Date: 2025/05/28
Abstract:
This study is on the impact and challenges of investigative journalism and political corruption in Nigeria. A survey research methodology was used in this study. Media practitioners from the Lagos Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalist Lagos are the population of this study. The study made used of systematic and purposive sampling techniques and a sample of 120 media practitioners was selected for the study. The Yamane formula was used to determine the sample size. A research questionnaire was used as research instrument. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 23.0 software using descriptive statistics involving frequency tables and percentages. The findings of this study showed that majority of the respondents agree that investigative journalism significantly impacts the exposure and reduction of political corruption by informing and mobilizing the public. Some of the challenges confronting investigative journalists in their efforts to investigate and report on political corruption include pressure from political actors through ownership influence, advertising boycotts, or regulatory sanctions (X = 3.62, SD = 1.26), lack of funding ( X = 3.58, SD = 1.43), Vague laws frequently used to arrest or sue journalists ( X = 3.19, SD = 1.37) and lack of technical skills to investigate political crimes ( X = 3.71, SD = 1.61). The study recommends that stakeholders, including the government, media owners, and the general public, should continuously support and promote investigative journalism to achieve its goals.