The Journalist: The Neglected Broom Only Sought When Needed

BY ISAAC ASABOR*

In the fast-paced world of news and information, journalists often find themselves overlooked until a crisis strikes or a story demands attention. Much like a broom carelessly discarded in a corner, they are ignored when not in immediate use but suddenly become invaluable when the dust starts to settle.

Given the foregoing empirical backdrop, it is germane in this context to explore the paradox of the journalist’s role in society, highlighting the often thankless nature of their work and the crucial role they play in shaping public discourse.

In fact, in a world where fame and influence are the currency of power, it is astonishing how often some politicians, corporate players, celebrities in Nigeria’s entertainment industry and even security personnel,  overlook how Journalists played a crucial role in their rise to prominence. This disregard is not only disrespectful but also reflects a profound misunderstanding of who journalists are and the indispensable role they play in society.

For far too long, many in the corridors of power and the glitz of entertainment, particularly in Nigeria’s Nollywood industry, have seen journalists as an inferior group, mere scribes whose work is deemed less significant. This perception could not be further from the truth. As ignorantly as some of them could be, Journalists are not only the chroniclers of history but also the shapers of public opinion. They are the unsung heroes who, through their relentless pursuit of truth, bring stories to light and elevate voices that might otherwise remain unheard.

Consider the journey of any successful politician or entertainer. At the beginning of their careers, when they were just another face in the crowd, it was journalists who spotlighted their efforts, talents, and ideologies. Through interviews, features, and reviews, journalists provided the platform that helped transform unknown individuals into household names. Opinion articles, news reports, and media coverage that journalists tirelessly produce are what build the narratives that make people care, vote, and support these figures.

However, as these politicians and entertainers ascend to the zenith of their careers, a troubling trend often emerges. The very journalists who once helped propel them to fame are now seen as nuisances, treated with disdain, or worse, as enemies. This attitude not only undermines the value of journalism but also jeopardizes the free flow of information, which is essential for a functioning democracy and a vibrant entertainment industry.

It is imperative to enlighten those who hold such misguided views on the true nature of journalism. A journalist is not merely a reporter or a writer; they are watchdogs of society, guardians of the truth, and defenders of the public’s right to know. Their work demands courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to facts, qualities that should be respected, not belittled.

Moreover, politicians, corporate players, entertainers and even members of Nigerian security agencies must recognize that their success is deeply intertwined with the work of journalists. The headlines that celebrate their achievements, the stories that humanize them to the public and the critiques that challenge them to be better are all products of journalistic labour. To disrespect journalists is to disrespect the very foundation of their public image.

Given the foregoing, it is time for politicians and entertainers to reassess their relationship with the media. Instead of viewing journalists as inferior, they should see them as partners in the journey of public life. The reason for the foregoing view cannot be farfetched as acknowledging the role of journalists not only fosters a healthier relationship with the press but also ensures that the stories that matter continue to be told with accuracy, fairness, and depth.

Journalists are the lifeblood of the narratives that shape our world. They are not inferior to politicians or entertainers; rather, they are their equals, if not their superiors, in the realm of influence. It is high time that this is recognized and respected. Without journalists, the stories of those in power and the limelight would remain untold, and the world would be a darker place for it.

Possessing a Ph.D. in mass communication directly from the university, while commendable, is not a guaranteed ticket to becoming a journalist. Journalism is a craft that requires more than academic knowledge; it demands practical experience, intuition, and the ability to navigate the fast-paced environment of the newsroom. Therefore, aspiring journalists are often groomed through hands-on training in the newsroom, where they learn the intricacies of the profession, from reporting and editing to ethical decision-making. Without this crucial grooming, even the most academically accomplished individuals may struggle to excel in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of journalism.

Without much ado, it is expedient to opine that in the world of fame and glamour, few forces wield as much influence as the media. Journalists, with the stroke of a pen or the click of a keyboard, can create icons out of ordinary individuals, propelling them to the heights of stardom. Conversely, that same power can dismantle a celebrity’s carefully crafted image, exposing flaws and bringing their world crashing down.

Without a doubt, the relationship between journalists and celebrities in all spheres of human endeavours is a complex dance of mutual benefit and precarious balance. On one hand, celebrities rely on the media to keep their names in the spotlight, knowing that fame is often as fleeting as the headlines that sustain it. This is because positive coverage can enhance a celebrity’s public image, attract lucrative endorsements, and solidify their place in popular culture. A well-timed feature, a glowing review, or an exclusive interview can catapult an unknown artist or grassroots politician into the limelight, transforming them into a household name.

However, this symbiotic relationship is not without its darker side. The same media that build up celebrities also has the power to tear them down. Scandals, controversies, and personal failings can be amplified and broadcast to the world, often with devastating consequences. A single damaging article, a viral social media post, or a relentless tabloid campaign can irreparably harm an entertainer or a politician’s reputation, leading to public backlash, loss of contracts or election, and in some cases, the end of a career.

It is particularly disheartening when the very entertainers and politicians who owe their rise to journalists forget the role these media professionals played in their success. For many entertainers and politicians, fame and wealth can lead to a sense of invincibility, where they begin to believe that their talent and education alone are responsible for their stardom. They overlook the fact that behind every glowing profile, every promotional piece, and every positive review, there was a journalist who believed in their potential and used their platform to help them shine.

These disconnect often manifests in entertainers and politicians viewing journalists as mere tools or, worse, as nuisances. Some even go as far as seeing journalists as beggars, dismissing them as individuals who are constantly seeking favours or access, and in most cases when soliciting for adverts. This attitude not only reflects a deep ingratitude but also a misunderstanding of the symbiotic nature of their relationship. Without the media’s spotlight, even the brightest stars can fade into obscurity, their talents unnoticed and their achievements forgotten.

One need only look at the many public figures whose careers have been tarnished by media coverage. The tabloids’ obsession with scandal and the public’s insatiable appetite for gossip has created a culture where no misstep goes unnoticed, and no personal failure is off-limits. This relentless scrutiny can push celebrities to their breaking point, leading to mental health struggles, substance abuse, and even tragic outcomes.

The power of the pen extends beyond the rise and fall of individual celebrities; it also shapes the cultural narratives that define our society. Journalists have the responsibility to report the truth, but with that comes the obligation to consider the impact of their words. The way stories are framed, the language used, and the choice of what to highlight or downplay all contribute to the public’s perception of a celebrity and politician. A balanced and ethical approach to journalism can create a fair and just portrayal, while sensationalism and bias can distort reality and fuel misinformation.

As consumers and beneficiaries of media, celebrities in politics and the entertainment industry and even in security formations must also recognize the collective roles of Nigerian Journalists in this dynamic. The reason for the foregoing cannot be farfetched as the demand for scandalous stories and sensational headlines drives the content that journalists produce. By choosing to engage with more thoughtful, in-depth journalism, Journalists can encourage a media landscape that values integrity over sensationalism and respects the humanity of those in the public eye.

Against the foregoing backdrop, it is germane to opine that the power of journalists to make and unmake celebrities in any sphere of life is undeniable. It is a power that must be wielded with care, integrity, and a deep awareness of the consequences. Celebrities may bask in the glow of media attention, but they are also at the mercy of the very forces that elevate them. As journalists, the responsibility is immense; as readers, the choice is out there in the public domain. Together, we shape the world of fame and the lives of those who inhabit it.

Be that as it may, the Journalist is unarguably like the neglected broom that is only sought when needed.