Investigating the Impact of Media Ownership Structures on Editorial Independence and News Reporting in Digitalage

Abstract

The influence of media ownership on editorial independence remains an argument in communication scholarship. While many believe that ownership largely influences news reportage, others say the degree of such influence is minimal or conditional. With the rise of the digital age, it becomes imperative to re- examine the influence media ownership on news reporting and editorial contents. Therefore, this study investigates if media ownership in Nigeria still has an impact on editorial independence and news reportage in the digital age. The study adopted the qualitative research approach using interview for data collection. The study was anchored on the social responsibility theory and the propaganda model. The findings from the study show that even in digital age, media ownership and control still has an impact on editorial contents and news reporting in Nigeria. Also, respondents revealed that editorial independence may be jeopardized for personal remuneration and welfare. It is recommended that media owners should grant media practitioners the liberty to exercise their duties without fear while media practitioners
should deliberately balance their reports.