International Journal of English Literature and Culture

Vol. 13(2), pp. 39-47, September 2025

 ISSN: 2360-7831

https://doi.org/10.14662/ijelc2025110

 

Review

 

Abstract

 

Kidnapping-for-ransom remains one of Nigeria’s most disturbing security challenges, and the media’s role in framing such incidents in headlines cannot be overlooked. This opinion paper explores how sensationalist reporting practices such as dramatic headlines, focus on ransom amounts, has created ethical dilemmas for journalism in Nigeria. It argues that while the media must inform the public, excessive sensationalism risks heightening public fear, undermining trust, and inadvertently legitimising criminal enterprises. The paper contends that Nigerian journalism must balance public interest with ethical responsibility, particularly in safeguarding victims and upholding national security. In light of the foregoing, this paper contextualises this discourse within the Framing Theory and Priming Theory. Scholars acknowledge, that sensationalism is an age-long phenomenon that has become a norm and may not end anytime soon. The paper in support of the scholars, advocate for the Nigerian public to be cautious of media sources it chooses to engage and for journalists to avoid sensationalising kidnapping ransom details as such could influence susceptible Nigerians to engage in the crime.

 

Keywords: Media Sensationalism, Ethical Dilemmas, Kidnapping-for-Ransom, Responsible Journalism, Nigeria  

 

Cite This Article As: Ekhaguebor, KO., Ufuophu-Biri, E., Ijeh, PN (2025). SATIRE IN CONTEMPORARY ARABIC FICTION. Inter. J. Eng. Lit. Cult. 13(2): 39-47