By Umukoro Ejiro
In Nigeria’s digital age, the proliferation of misinformation, disinformation, propaganda, and conspiracy theories has become a significant threat to media integrity. The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and chatbots has further exacerbated this issue, compromising the principles of truth and veracity in journalism.
At the 2024 Wọle Ṣoyinka Centre Media Lecture Series, Odia Ofeimun, poet, author, and political scientist, highlighted the transformative power of language in defining and preserving narratives. He emphasized how language shapes our collective experiences and memories, forging a sense of identity and belonging amidst turmoil.
Language shapes narratives, defines our collective experiences, forges identity and has a profound impact on our understanding of reality. Ofeimun urged us to remember the interpreters who “died into a season of harm and potentially disappear.” In a world scarred by conflict, language becomes a tool for continuity and coherence.
The Rise of Disinformation vs the Power and Burden of Language
Digital culture has granted tremendous freedoms, challenging the once-exclusive privilege of news media to generate and share information. However, these freedoms have fallen victim to abuse. Misinformation, disinformation, and conspiracy theories now masquerade as reliable news, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and chatbots further amplifies the reach of disinformation, threatening the very essence of truth and veracity.
Kadaria Ahmed, CEO of RadioNow 95.3FM, noted that the crisis of identity in journalism stems from the conflict between personal and professional identities. She emphasized the importance of trust in media, which is often compromised by funding sources with agendas that may not align with public interest.
Lady Ejiro Umukoro, Executive Director of LightRay! Media, stressed the importance of presenting balanced and fair reporting, recognizing multiple perspectives in a story. She cautioned against the use of propaganda and emphasized the need for accuracy, fairness, and balance in journalism.
The speakers’ insights underscore the challenges faced by journalists in maintaining truth and integrity in their work. The future of Nigerian journalism hinges on its ability to reconcile these challenges, preserving the legacy of storytelling and maintaining a steadfast commitment to truth.
Imaginative vs. Discursive Creativity
Drawing parallels to Professor Wole Soyinka’s literary legacy, Ofeimun highlighted how literature anchors us to our past while guiding us through present challenges. Soyinka’s Nobel Prize-winning work exemplifies storytelling’s enduring relevance in understanding our social fabric.
Ofeimun proposed a shift from imaginative literature to what Roland Barthes and Foucault termed “discursive creatives.” This departure from traditional forms embraces fluid, interactive engagement with reality. Authors and creators must reimagine their roles, adapting to the evolving media landscape.
The Nigerian media’s integrity faces a delicate balancing act. As journalists strive for truth, they must navigate biases, external pressures, and the ever-evolving digital landscape. Let us remain vigilant, championing the principles of responsible journalism in an age where what is seen is not always as it seems.
Journalists must navigate the intricate interplay of personal identity, financial pressures, and professional ethics while striving to provide accurate and unbiased reporting. The quest for authentic journalism is not just about reporting facts but about fostering a deeper understanding of our shared human experience.
