Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has thrown down the gauntlet to the Nigerian media. He’s calling for journalists to step up and be the nation’s conscience, not just another voice in the chorus of government criticism. But what does this really mean for the future of news and accountability in Nigeria?
Here’s a quick rundown of the key points:
- Shettima urges media to prioritize truth over antagonism.
- He emphasizes the media’s role as the nation’s conscience.
- The VP stressed the importance of balance between self-interest and public duty.
- He called for media to be courageous in the face of criticism.
- Shettima says true allegiance is to society, not self.
The Fine Line: Truth vs. Antagonism
Shettima didn’t mince words when addressing the Nigerian media. He drew a clear distinction between “speaking truth to power” and simply “antagonizing the government.” According to him, the former is driven by a genuine desire to serve the greater good, while the latter is often a self-serving exercise that leads to nowhere.
It’s a tricky balance, and one that raises questions about how the media should operate in a developing democracy. Is it okay to criticize without offering constructive solutions? Or should the focus always be on the bigger picture?
Media: The Nation’s Conscience
Taking a cue from Plato’s “The Republic,” Shettima stressed that journalists, as part of the intellectual class, should act as the nation’s conscience. What does this mean in practical terms? It means that the media should not just report the news, but also challenge the status quo, hold leaders accountable, and offer critical perspectives on issues that affect the country.
This call to duty places a heavy responsibility on the shoulders of Nigerian journalists, who often work under challenging conditions, facing threats and intimidation. But if they rise to the challenge, the potential impact on the nation could be enormous.
Courage Under Fire
Shettima didn’t stop at just calling for the media to be the conscience of the nation. He emphasized that true courage lies in refusing to compromise on the pursuit of truth, even when faced with criticism and bullying. He made it clear that participating in smear campaigns, even in the face of facts, is not courage but cowardice.
This point is crucial because it highlights the need for journalists to be resilient, ethical, and committed to their profession, no matter the pressure they may face.
A Book that Speaks Volumes
The Vice President’s remarks were made during the launch of “Persona Non-Grata”, a book by journalist Ismail Omipidan. Shettima described the book as “a declaration of the price of adhering to noble principles.” The book itself serves as a reminder of the importance of speaking truth, even when it comes at a cost.
Ultimately, Shettima’s message is clear: the Nigerian media should play a vital role in shaping a better Nigeria. By prioritizing truth, serving as the nation’s conscience, and demonstrating courage, journalists can be a powerful force for positive change.
Additional Context
It’s worth noting that the relationship between the media and government is always a sensitive one, regardless of the country. In Nigeria, where issues like corruption and political instability are prevalent, the media often face extra challenges. They have to strike a balance between holding government accountable and not being seen as actively undermining it. The call by Shettima can therefore be seen as both a challenge and an encouragement for the media to play its vital role responsibly.
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