IMPEDIMENTS OF ETHICAL JOURNALISM PRACTICE IN IMO STATE: A VERITABLE WAY FORWARD

This study investigated the impediments of ethical journalism practice in Imo State, Nigeria, focusing on the challenges faced by 250 practicing journalists in both print and electronic media. Employing a survey research method, the study identifies key barriers such as political interference, inadequate remuneration, safety concerns, misinformation, and limited access to information. These challenges hinder journalists from adhering to professional ethical standards and fulfilling their watchdog role in society. The findings reveal that political and economic pressures often compromise journalistic integrity, while the lack of proper regulatory frameworks exacerbates the issue. Drawing on relevant theories like the Social Responsibility Theory, the study underscores the need for improved remuneration, enhanced safety measures, regular training on ethics, and stricter enforcement of media laws.