Adherence to Journalism Code of Ethics by Reporters in Imo State

Abstract

Thus, the purpose of this research was to investigate whether or not journalists in Imo State followed the Journalism Code of Conduct. Theories of relativism and social responsibility served as the basis for the research. This study employed a mixed research methodology consisting of a survey and an in-depth interview. The study's population included 193 registered journalists based in Imo State for the quantitative portion, and 6 media professionals classified as stakeholders for the qualitative portion. This study’s data collection methods included a questionnaire and an interview guide. The study found that journalists in Imo State have an above-average understanding of professional ethics, with a mean score of 5.4 on a 10-point scale. The research also found that journalists adherence to ethical standards is inadequate. According to the findings, if we want the public to continue to respect the journalism profession, we need to ensure that journalists are held to high standards of ethics.