By KosofePost Editorial Board
June 19, 2025
In any functioning democracy, the media is more than a watchdog—it is a bridge between the governed and those in power. One of the most essential tools that keeps this bridge intact is the media enquiry: a formal request for information, clarification, or comment. It is how journalists verify facts, ensure fairness, and uphold the public’s right to know.
Yet today, in Kosofe and across Nigeria, that bridge is weakening.
We are witnessing a troubling decline in timely, well-documented media enquiries—especially from online newsrooms—on issues of urgent public concern. This isn’t just a shift in media practice; it’s a threat to public accountability, governance, and trust.
The High Cost of Silence
When community disputes, budget allocations, infrastructure projects, or political tensions arise, the first duty of any credible newsroom is to ask the hard questions—clearly, formally, and early. These enquiries are not mere rituals; they are essential parts of the truth-seeking process.
But what happens when these questions are delayed—or worse, never asked?
Too often, journalists now rely on hearsay, social media threads, or anonymous tips, driven by fatigue, fear of backlash, or the defeatist notion that “no one responds anyway.” This shortcut journalism erodes public interest reporting and leaves dangerous gaps for misinformation to thrive.
Silence Fuels Speculation
At KosofePost, our coverage of local campaigns, government activities, and civic unrest has shown a consistent pattern: when media enquiries are skipped or delayed, speculation fills the void. When one side of a story is missing, bias and misinformation take root.
“It’s not our fault—they didn’t respond” is no excuse. The real question is: Did we ask? And did we ask early enough?
Accountability Requires Two Parties
Journalists have a duty to send timely, persistent enquiries—but public officials also bear responsibility. Dodging questions, delaying responses, or dismissing online journalists as “unserious” only widens the gap between power and the people.
Whether you’re a local government chairperson or a state spokesperson, holding public office comes with the obligation to engage—not just during elections, but always.
What We’re Doing at KosofePost
We’re improving our own protocols to set a higher standard. Here’s our renewed commitment:
Sending formal, documented enquiries on every story of public interest.
Following up when we don’t receive responses—and reporting that silence.
Publishing transparency logs: who we contacted, when, and their response (or lack thereof).
Training and encouraging citizen journalists to adopt the same standards.
We also urge fellow media outlets—local and national—to do the same. Media enquiries, including those sent online, are not optional. They are central to balanced, ethical, and impactful journalism.
Final Word: Ask the Question
In journalism, silence is never neutral. It either protects the powerful or betrays the public.
In Kosofe, and across Nigeria, where democracy is still finding its feet, timely media enquiries are not a luxury. They are a duty.
Let us remember: The question unasked is often the answer unchallenged.