Media or Machinery? How Nigeria’s Politics and Press Became Tightly Intertwined

 

In a country where political influence runs deep, the line between journalism and political machinery is becoming harder to draw. Following recent public criticism of Nigeria’s mainstream media, a deeper conversation is emerging: just how independent is the press and how much of it is being used to shape public opinion rather than inform it?

Analysts and media watchdogs say Nigeria’s biggest news outlets are increasingly aligned with political interests, receiving funding, access, and protection in exchange for favorable coverage. Stories that challenge the status quo, expose corruption, or present alternative viewpoints often struggle to get airtime or are watered down before publication.

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Political analysts describe it as a “mutual survival deal”  politicians need media to maintain control over public narratives, and media houses need politicians to keep their businesses afloat.

The result? Citizens are left navigating a storm of spin, half-truths, and carefully crafted headlines while those who attempt to challenge it are often labeled as unreliable or conspiratorial.

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“We can’t keep pretending the media is neutral,” said Dr. Kemi Oduwole, a media studies lecturer in Abuja. “We need to ask tough questions about ownership, editorial control, and whose voices are missing from the headlines.”

This growing mistrust has led to the rise of independent blogs, YouTube commentators, and social media influencers who often break news before traditional outlets sometimes at great personal risk.

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But the battle is far from over. With elections looming and political reshuffling underway, the war for public perception is only intensifying. While some citizens continue to trust legacy media, many others are tuning out  or tuning in elsewhere.

The big question remains: in Nigeria’s next chapter, will truth come from the newsroom or from the streets?