society
Bloggers, Online Journalists, Fake News and The Identity Question
Bloggers, Online Journalists, Fake News and The Identity Question- By Israel O. Bolaji-Gbadamosi
The meteoric rise of social media and the attendant birth of citizen journalism have, indeed, reset the way information is now shared and consumed globally. As at October 2020, 4.14 billion people or 53% of total global population use social media. Interestingly, Facebook alone has over 3.2 billion users/readers worldwide and over 210 million in Africa – that translates to a whopping 42% of the world and 16% of the 1.3b African population respectively (The Global State of Digital 2019). In Nigeria, at least 85% of the 25million active social media users as at March 2020 are on Whatsapp. And there are more. With such a humongous audience, everybody has suddenly become so itchy to share some information or ‘news’, accurate or otherwise. All that is required is only an internet-enabled mobile phone!
To that end, some questions have popped up in recent discourses on citizen journalism, social media and the fake news scourge. There is one question bordering on identity. Who is an online journalist, a blogger or an online publisher? And are they solely responsible for the fake news scourge?
These posers have been fueled largely by the myriad of unwholesome practices that now permeate the social and online media space, especially with information and ‘news’ dissemination in the wake of social and new media explosion. In an unprecedented manner, information is shared on various social media platforms by just any Joe or Jane, particularly on Whatsapp and Facebook, without due recourse to the source or and authenticity. Their stock in trade is to just forward as received.
The second dimension and key focus points to media charlatans, who are at best media neophytes or sometimes total strangers to the profession but have been driven by economic constraints and empowered as ‘citizen journalists with internet-enabled devices and a free blogging site, and are therefore masquerading as bloggers or journalists, publishing just about anything. From lewd gists to bland gossips or hypes; from the mundane to the horrible. Strangely though, they continue to attract enviable readership and advertising patronage. Why? Your guess is as good as mine.
Blogger vs Online Journalist
While names such as online publisher, blogger, online journalist have been used interchangeably to describe persons or organizations that publish news and information online, the crux lies in the noticeable slide in ethical journalistic practices. In a way, while a blogger, traditionally, is known for publishing content largely from scoops, scandals, lifestyle, celebrity and other mild subjects, the online journalist is more of the mainstream journalist with the only difference being the online medium of plying the same old trade. But for both, the ethical standards remain the same. The news could be bad or good, but should be verified and fairly reported.
However, the spate of quackery and unethical trends in the online media space have prompted the identity question from the general public, which has become much bewildered. Without mincing words, professional media practice is currently at a low in the online media space, littered with verbatim content plagiarism, semi-literate reporters, poor command of grammar, syntax and lexis, lack of consistent writing style and news verification, weak proofreading and blatant transactional reportage. Those who operate beyond this pedestal are and should be addressed as online journalists.
One group that has noticed the Achilles’ heel in this regard is the corporate organizations. Privately, it holds a terrible impression of online newspapers – ‘the baby and the water’. But for the readership power, influence and the fear of its occasional scandals leaking out, it keeps a bland smile publicly and grudgingly tag along. I have also recently heard a few policemen friends, in light conversations, derogatorily wave all online newspapers aside as ‘online publishers’. For them, only the very popular household names like Punch, Guardian, Vanguard and co count; others don’t – including DailyPost, Legit.com, PremuimTimes, TheCable, TheConscience, Eagleonline and others who command nearly as much readership as the top 5 traditional media. You can imagine the stark ignorance! Needless to say that even the traditional media space is also not without its peculiar mess, occasioned by months of non-salary payments, media racketeering, commercial media gatekeeping amongst others.
Missing Link
The missing link in the online media space is the traditional quality control mechanism, including production editing and watertight editorial scrutiny. This mechanism has traditionally “cleaned up the reporters’ mess” and provided continuous tutelage for reporters on writing but its absence in the online media space has exposed the system. This is the distinguishing factor between the wobbly mass and the outstanding few.
On a larger scale, the problems are also another reflection of the general dip in the quality of education and economy in Nigeria, as seen manifesting across many professional fields.
Who Is Responsible for Fake News?
Every group in the Nigerian society contributes to the scourge of fake news. Online media is never solely responsible. Governments and indeed all private and public organizations telling half-truths and sometimes outright lies, and orchestrating cover-ups in the media are guilty. The public has received so many versions of what happened at Lekki toll gate shooting that everyone has become so confused and unwilling to further hear or believe any of the accounts anymore. And lastly, everyone who goes on WhatsApp and Facebook to just share any information as received without verification. Yes, all are guilty and responsible.
Online Media is the big deal!
Regardless of its issues, online journalism is the future and can’t be avoided. CNN, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, The Washington Post, Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph and other respected global newspapers are all online with increasing dwindling print pages and copies. In Nigeria, top newspapers are investing massively in online versions and competing well online with smaller players. Punch, BusinessDay and Vanguard are classical cases. The Guardian and Sun are picking up the pace. Many senior journalists formerly writing for popular print media houses but have been axed owing to the wobbly economy now run their start-up online newspapers and many small platforms now have highly skilled and experienced hands behind them, opening up the space for intense competition and the survival of the strongest.
Globally, more eyeballs continue to converge on mobile phone and devices, as such, reinforcing the indispensability of everything online especially mobile -retail, gaming, shopping, banking etc. Government, on its end, is also making frantic efforts, under the guise of fixing the challenges of information flow online, to regulate the social and online media space but gagging opposing voices and views has been reported identified as the core target.
Unfortunately, the platform with the highest viewers, and by extension influence, rules the online space. And because more people prefer to read gossips and junks more, serious writers aren’t getting as much traction. So, many serious ones are courting a bit of sensation just to spice up and catch up.
Solutions
As most of the damage done online with respect to information dissemination is by the itchy-finger public that share just anything on social media- WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter, government and social media companies should intensify awareness programs to discourage the habit of just sharing information on social media without verifying source and authenticity. Information should be questioned and certified true by relevant authority before being circulated. In the same vein, the government should not regulate but allow the existing laws of libel applicable to print media to also operate online.
Online Media groups and clusters should be encouraged through which training and retraining can be done consistently to bridge the skill gaps. Corporate organizations don’t have a choice than to work with online newspapers, therefore, should key into the cluster groups and court sincere relationships.
Finally, online newspaper groups should step up the practice with some mild self-regulation through cluster groups under whose supervision sub-standard platforms are identified and mentored through crash courses, seminars and peer reviews, and sanctioned when necessary.
Israel O. Bolaji-Gbadamosi is a journalist, Communications Advisor, Public Affairs Analyst and Poet.
Banwo Questions Bwala’s Credibility After Al Jazeera Interview
Public commentator, Dr. Ope Banwo, has criticised Daniel Bwala, the Presidential Spokesperson on Policy Communication for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a contentious interview on Al Jazeera, describing the appearance as damaging to the credibility of Nigeria’s public communication.
Bwala had appeared on a programme hosted by journalist Mehdi Hasan, where he faced a series of questions about past statements attributed to him. During the exchange, Hasan presented video clips of previous remarks by the government spokesman and asked him to reconcile them with his responses during the interview.
The exchange, which has since circulated widely online, drew attention after Bwala appeared to dispute statements that were subsequently played back during the programme.
Reacting to the development, Banwo said the episode reflected poorly on Nigeria’s representation on international media platforms.
According to him, the availability of digital records and online archives means public officials must be prepared to defend their past statements whenever they appear on global television.
“In the era of instant fact-checking, any public figure going on international television must assume that every previous statement can be easily retrieved,” Banwo said.
He added that the controversy surrounding the interview was particularly troubling because the contradictions presented during the programme were supported with video evidence.
Banwo noted that while political interviews can be confrontational, government representatives should expect tough questioning when appearing before international audiences.
The founder of Naija Lives Matters also expressed concern over Bwala’s reaction during the interview, especially his claim that he was not informed he would be required to defend his personal record.
“A government spokesman should never be surprised by questions about his own public statements,” Banwo said.
During the programme, Bwala also responded to criticism of Nigeria’s governance challenges by arguing that similar problems exist in other parts of the world.
However, Banwo argued that such comparisons do not address the specific issues raised about Nigeria.
According to him, the episode should serve as a reminder of the importance of preparation and credibility when Nigerian officials appear before international media platforms.
The interview has continued to generate reactions across social media and political commentary circles, with observers debating both the conduct of the interview and the implications for Nigeria’s global image.
society
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
_[Atlantis City, United Kingdom of Atlantis – March 2026]_ – The United Kingdom of Atlantis proudly announces the introduction of its *Imperial Gold Coin*, a magnificent emblem of sovereignty, authority, and imperial heritage. The exquisite gold coin has been crafted to represent the nation’s regal tradition, economic strength, and the visionary leadership of its monarch.
The centerpiece of the coin features the dignified portrait of *His Imperial Majesty, Professor Solomon Wining*, depicted in full royal regalia. Crowned with a majestic golden crown and adorned with intricately crafted ornaments, the portrait embodies honor, wisdom, and noble leadership befitting a sovereign ruler. The depiction celebrates the monarch’s reign, which is associated with wisdom, development, and the pursuit of justice.
The golden coin itself signifies *prosperity, stability, and the enduring legacy* of the Atlantis Kingdom. Gold, historically a universal symbol of power, wealth, and permanence, reflects the strength and vision of the kingdom’s leadership and its aspirations for lasting greatness.
Encircling the royal portrait is the carefully engraved inscription *“United Kingdom of Atlantis”*, reinforcing the state’s identity any the authority of its sovereign ruler. The lower rim of the coin prominently displays the name *Solomon Wining*, commemorating the monarch whose leadership is linked to noble governance and national advancement.
The phrase *“Gold Coin”* highlights not only the currency’s intrinsic value but also its symbolic significance as a representation of the kingdom’s economic structure and royal treasury. Beyond its aesthetic elegance, the coin serves as a *mark of sovereignty*, a seal of authority, and a reminder of the royal institution governing the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The Imperial Gold Coin represents:
– *Unity* among citizens,
– *Loyalty* to the crown,
– A vision of a kingdom built upon *justice, prosperity, and noble leadership*.
Every detail—from the engraved crown to the polished golden surface—makes the coin a timeless emblem of imperial prestige and national pride. It stands as both a symbol of wealth and a monument to the legacy of royal leadership, reminding all who behold it of the enduring power and majesty of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is a sovereign nation dedicated to upholding traditions of regal governance, cultural heritage, and economic prosperity, guided by the wisdom of its imperial leadership.
_Notes to Editors_:
The Imperial Gold Coin is intended for commemorative and symbolic purposes, representing the nation’s imperial heritage and royal authority.
Ajadi Visits Ibadan Chief Imam, Receives Blessings
The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Grand Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Imam Abdul Ganiy Abubakir Agbotomokekere, at his Oja’ba residence in Ibadan, where discussions centred on leadership, integrity, and the role of prayers in governance.
Ajadi, who described the revered Islamic cleric as a spiritual pillar in Oyo State, said his visit was to seek prayers and wise counsel as he continues consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
While addressing the Chief Imam, Ajadi commended his consistent prayers for Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria, noting that religious leaders remain critical stakeholders in nation building.
“I have come to seek your prayers and spiritual blessings because of your important role in promoting peace, unity and moral guidance in our society,” Ajadi said.
“I also want to appreciate your continuous prayers for the progress of Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. My prayer is that Almighty Allah will continue to grant you sound health and long life to witness many more Ramadan seasons on earth.”
Speaking further, the PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised the need for leadership driven by compassion, fairness and accountability, stressing that his political aspiration is rooted in service to the people.
“My ambition is not just about occupying an office but about serving the people with sincerity and fear of God. We must continue to encourage politics that will bring development and improve the welfare of our people,” he added.
While speaking with journalists after the visit, Ajadi also assured the people of Oyo State and Nigerians at large that the internal crisis and political tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been brought under control by the grace of God. He expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious in all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
In his response, Sheikh Agbotomokekere advised the governorship hopeful to remain focused on the principles of good governance, warning against corrupt practices often associated with politics.
The respected Islamic scholar noted that while politics is practised differently by individuals, only leaders with integrity and fear of God can truly deliver the dividends of democracy.
“Politics is practised by different kinds of people. Some play politics in a corrupt way, while others practise it with sincerity. My prayer is that you will be among those who will practise democracy in the right way if you become governor,” the Chief Imam said.
He reminded the aspirant that human ambition can only be fulfilled by divine approval, stressing that ultimate power belongs to God.
“Whoever is seeking a position should know that only Allah can make such an ambition come true. Whether a person becomes famous or remains unknown is also by the will of Allah,” he said.
Offering prayers for the politician, the cleric added: “Many people may be struggling for a position meant for one person, and it is only God who knows the rightful person. I pray that Almighty Allah will make you the chosen one among all the contenders.”
Using a football analogy to further illustrate his point, the cleric advised Ajadi to be wary of political distractions and misleading influences.
“On the football field, sometimes spectators believe they understand the game more than the players themselves. I pray that you will not be misled by so-called political gurus and that God will guide your steps aright,” he said.
Sheikh Agbotomokekere, the 18th Chief Imam of Ibadanland, is widely respected across South-Western Nigeria for his scholarship, spiritual leadership and advocacy for peaceful coexistence among religious and political groups.
Observers say the visit forms part of Ajadi’s ongoing consultations with key stakeholders, traditional rulers and religious leaders as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle in Oyo State.
The cleric offered special prayers for peace in Oyo State, successful leadership, and continued unity among the people despite political and religious differences.
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