Background of the Study
Ethical journalism plays a pivotal role in ensuring accountability, transparency, and justice within society. In Yola South Local Government Area, Adamawa State, the interaction between ethical journalism and whistleblowing practices has garnered increasing attention. Whistleblowers, often essential in exposing corruption and malpractice, rely on journalists to amplify their voices while maintaining confidentiality and ensuring accurate representation of their disclosures. However, the absence of robust legal protections for whistleblowers and ethical lapses in journalism, such as sensationalism and inadequate source protection, pose challenges to this dynamic. Ethical journalism demands adherence to principles of accuracy, confidentiality, and public interest, yet practitioners often face risks such as political interference, legal threats, and financial constraints (Abubakar & Musa, 2024; Ibrahim, 2023). This study explores the interplay between ethical journalism and whistleblower protection in Yola South, analyzing how media practices and systemic frameworks support or hinder whistleblowers.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Whistleblowers in Yola South often encounter risks such as retaliation, social ostracism, and legal persecution, exacerbated by weak institutional protections and unethical media practices. Journalists, as intermediaries, sometimes fail to uphold ethical standards, exposing whistleblowers to further harm or compromising the integrity of their revelations. Despite global discussions on the importance of whistleblower protection in fostering transparency, limited research focuses on localized contexts such as Yola South, where unique socio-political dynamics influence journalism practices (Yusuf & Okoro, 2024; Bello, 2023). This study seeks to bridge this gap by examining ethical journalism's role in supporting whistleblowers while safeguarding public trust.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To examine the ethical challenges faced by journalists in protecting whistleblowers in Yola South.
To evaluate the effectiveness of media practices in amplifying whistleblowers' disclosures while ensuring their safety.
To propose strategies for strengthening the relationship between ethical journalism and whistleblower protection.
1.4 Research Questions
What ethical challenges do journalists face in protecting whistleblowers in Yola South?
How effective are current media practices in safeguarding whistleblowers and their disclosures?
What strategies can enhance ethical journalism and support for whistleblowers?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
Journalists in Yola South face significant ethical challenges in protecting whistleblowers.
Current media practices inadequately safeguard whistleblowers and their disclosures.
Strengthened ethical frameworks enhance whistleblower protection in journalism.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it highlights the critical intersection of ethical journalism and whistleblower protection, providing insights for journalists, policymakers, and advocacy groups. By focusing on Yola South, the research offers localized recommendations for improving ethical standards and systemic protections, ultimately fostering accountability and public trust.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on the relationship between ethical journalism and whistleblower protection in Yola South Local Government Area, examining media practices and systemic challenges within the region.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Ethical Journalism: The practice of adhering to principles of accuracy, confidentiality, and accountability in reporting.
Whistleblowers: Individuals who expose misconduct, corruption, or malpractice within organizations.
Whistleblower Protection: Legal and institutional safeguards ensuring the safety and confidentiality of whistleblowers
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