Influence of the Watchdog Role of Nigerian Journalists on Public Perception of President Buhari’s Anti-Corruption Crusade

Abstract

The watchdog role of journalists constitutes a vital element of journalism. It helps curb corruption and enthrone good governance. Unfortunately, corruption has thrived at virtually all strata of the Nigerian society, with the most endemic committed by individuals in positions of authority. This article examines the influence of journalists’ watchdog role on public perception of President Muhammadu Buhari’s anti-corruption crusade in Nigeria. A national survey of media consumers in Nigeria revealed that public perception of anti-corruption movements significantly depends on exposure to media reports on corruption cases in the country. The article notes that, while there is a very low level of audience exposure to media reports on corruption cases in Nigeria, the little media hype on President Buhari’s anti-corruption efforts has not elicited public support for the anti-corruption crusade. The article concludes that many Nigerian journalists have yet to prioritize watchdog reporting and recommends training in investigative journalism skills to fulfill this role effectively.