Influence of Gratification on Political Reporting in Nigeria (A Case Study of Magic FM, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria)

Abstract

This research study aims to examine the impact of gratification on political relationships in Nigeria. The Nigerian media system is characterized by a high level of government interference and limited freedom of expression. It is therefore relevant to examine the extent to which gratification shapes the political reporting of Nigerian journalists. The study employed a mixed research method involving the use of semi-structured interviews and content analysis of news articles. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 50 journalists covering political news in Nigeria. The interviews were conducted to discover the underlying reasons that influence their decision-making process in covering political news. Content analysis was used to examine the content of political articles to determine the extent to which it is influenced by satisfaction. The findings revealed that satisfaction plays an important role in how journalists cover politics in Nigeria. Journalists received gifts, favors and money in exchange for favorable political news coverage. These rewards have affected his objectivity, professionalism and credibility. Furthermore, the results revealed that government officials are the most important source of rewards that journalists receive. Content analysis revealed that reporting on political news in Nigeria was biased, unprofessional and lacked objectivity. The reports were often biased towards the interests of government officials who liked the reporters. The results also showed that the most publicized political issues in Nigeria were those favoring government officials. Implications of the study suggest that satisfaction should be addressed to improve the quality of political reporting in Nigeria. It is recommended that media organizations regularly provide training and education to journalists on ethics, professionalism and objectivity. In addition, the government should enforce laws that criminalize gratification, and journalists should be encouraged to report any acts of gratification. This study provides insight into the impact of satisfaction on political journalism in Nigeria. The findings suggest that satisfaction is an important factor influencing the objectivity, professionalism and credibility of political reporting in Nigeria. The implications of this study are expected to help improve the quality of political reporting in Nigeria and increase public confidence in the work of Nigerian journalists.