7. Nigerian Tabloid Journalism and Corruption Practices

Brian explains that corruption affects the socio-economic fabric and development of Nigeria and threatens the existence of the country as a political entity. He notes that tabloid newspapers in the country are important partners, largely because of their sensational watchdog function of monitoring actions and inactions of those in power. Brian discusses the Lamido Sanusi scandal and the disappearance of over US$20 billion in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation in revenues. He also looks at the BMW scandal by the aviation minister in which millions of dollars were looted. Brian concludes that the role of anti-corruption tabloid newspapers is critical in the fight against corruption. He notes that tabloid journalists to expose corruption effectively require a high degree of responsibility, and involves editorial and gatekeeping decisions with regard to which information to report and which information to leave behind which enhances or damages the fight against corruption.