Framing the War on Corruption in Nigeria Through the Eyes of Journalists

Abstract: Drawing on the framing theory, this study examines the role of Nigerian journalists in the fight against corruption. From 25 in-depth interviews with journalism professionals who covered corruption cases between 2015 and 2019, and a content analysis of press coverage of corruption stories (n = 1, 124) during that period, the study asserts that journalists' lived reality does not reflect the expectation that they would expose corruption or contribute to the fight against corruption. The perception of anti-corruption by journalists is often shaped by a constructed narrative that prioritises the interests of political and media elites. Existential challenges such as media ownership, organisational constraints, and limited resources, can influence journalists' frames of reference. These challenges prevent them from conducting comprehensive or long-term corruption investigations in the country, which can lead to distorted narratives that undermine the core values of the anti-corruption war.

Keywords: Anti-corruption war, journalists, framing, Nigeria

Published: June 2024

Issue: Vol 1 (3) 2024: PLASU JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION STUDIES