| Abstract: |
Brown envelope journalism has remained one of the most persistent
ethical challenges confronting journalism practice in Nigeria. The
practice, which involves the acceptance of money, gifts, or other
material benefits by journalists in exchange for favourable news
coverage or the suppression of information, undermines the ethical
principles of objectivity, fairness, independence, accountability, and
credibility that underpin professional journalism. This study
examined brown envelope journalism and its implications for
broadcast media ethics in Nigeria using the library research method.
Specifically, the study reviewed existing literature to examine the
prevalence of brown envelope journalism, identify the factors
responsible for its persistence, evaluate its implications for
broadcast media professionalism and public confidence, and
highlight strategies recommended by scholars for addressing the
practice. Relevant information was obtained from textbooks, peerreviewed journal articles, conference papers, government
publications, policy documents, and other credible scholarly
sources. The reviewed materials were analysed using qualitative
content analysis by comparing, synthesising, and interpreting
existing scholarly arguments and empirical evidence. The reviewed
literature revealed that poor remuneration, commercialisation of
news, political interference, ownership influence, and weak
enforcement of professional ethics remain the major factors
sustaining brown envelope journalism in Nigeria. The literature
further indicated that the practice compromises journalistic
objectivity, weakens editorial independence, erodes public trust in
the media, and diminishes the watchdog role of journalism in
democratic governance. The study concluded that strengthening
ethical regulation, improving journalists' welfare, promoting
continuous professional development, and safeguarding editorial
independence are essential for restoring professionalism and public
confidence in the Nigerian broadcast media.
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