Interrogating Compromised Role of the Media as the Fourth Estate of the Realm

This study used descriptive content analysis DCA to evaluate the traditional function of the mainstream media as well as its compromised role as the fourth estate of the realm. Secondary data were obtained from the library and the internet. The study was anchored on Media Systems, Watchdog Journalism, Agenda-Setting. The media systems framework explained how the mainstream media operates in Nigeria and how the Nigerian society impacts its operation; Watchdog Journalism guided the researchers to understand that the mainstream media watches over the activities of the three arms of government; Agenda-Setting reveals that by constantly reporting an event and emphasising the salient areas, the mainstream media succeeds in telling the audience what to think about but not how to think about it. Findings revealed that the Nigerian media performs its Fourth Estate role through watchdogging, advocacy, information dissemination, agenda setting, and harmonisation. It was also discovered that the Fourth Estate has equally compromised its role through ownership structure, partisan allegiance and political bias, political and economic ideology, economic reasons, insecurity and safety hazards, and ethical laxity. These factors have combined to make the appellation “Fourth Estate” an assumption, not a reality. The study also found that media role compromise has untold consequences. The researchers recommended that the Nigerian mainstream media should uphold its operational ethics, and perform its role without fear, intimidation, luring benefits, or being the mouthpiece of corrupt politicians against society.