Investigative Journalism in Nigeria: The Role of Premium Times and Sahara Reporters

Abstract

In recent years, the media have increasingly exposed high-profile cases of misconduct by public office holders, particularly certificate forgery and the violation of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Act. Such developments, if left unchecked, damage the country’s reputation internationally. Political appointees, especially ministers, have featured prominently in these cases. Against this background, this study examines the role of investigative journalism in Nigeria, with particular reference to Premium Times and Sahara Reporters. A survey design was adopted to elicit respondents’ insights and opinions on the phenomenon, with Enugu urban as the study location. The findings indicate that public concern over such cases has grown markedly over the period examined (2015–2025). The study concludes that a number of Nigerian public office holders occupy office with questionable educational credentials, and it recommends firm legal sanctions, including custodial sentences, for public office holders found to have forged certificates, as well as for those who collude with them.