A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ibrahim Wala, has urged Nigerian journalists to resist political and commercial pressures by recommitting to investigative journalism and unbiased reporting as a means of tackling bad governance.
Wala, who recently joined the ADC, made the appeal in a statement issued in Abuja. He stressed that the press remains a vital pillar of democracy and must not abandon its role as society’s watchdog.
“It behoves journalists to reclaim their independence and return to the core duties of investigative journalism and unbiased reporting,” he said, warning that silence in the face of abuse of power threatens the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.
He accused politicians and religious leaders of forming what he described as a “two-headed monster,” arguing that their alliance was eroding social values while worsening the plight of ordinary citizens. According to him, the media has a duty to “expose this unholy alliance” and investigate the sources of their influence.
Wala expressed concern over what he termed a “troubling romance” between political elites and the clergy, saying the collaboration often goes unchallenged by the press. “When the media, the supposed watchdog, is either a silent bystander or, worse, an accomplice, the foundation of our democracy begins to crumble,” he warned.
The ADC stalwart linked the consequences of media neglect to rising insecurity across the country, noting that the lack of strong press pressure has allowed the crisis to deepen. He also accused some media houses of serving as propaganda tools for politicians and clerics instead of holding them accountable.
“Journalism is a public service, not a mere profit-making venture. While we understand the economic realities you face, succumbing to commercial and political pressures turns a noble profession into a puppet show,” Wala said.
He cautioned that when media outlets are owned and controlled by those they should scrutinise, they lose credibility and betray public trust.
Wala’s remarks align with long-standing calls from civil society groups for stronger media independence, alternative funding models, and renewed commitment to journalism as a public service.
