IMPACT OF FACEBOOK IN THE PRACTICE OF JOURNALISM IN OSUN STATE
Abstract
The study investigated the influence of Facebook on the practice of journalism in Osun State,
Nigeria. It explored how journalists utilize Facebook for news gathering, dissemination, audience
engagement, and professional interactions. The research adopted a descriptive survey design and
relied on data collected through structured questionnaires administered to members of the
Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State chapter. The total population of 259 journalists
was studied using a total enumeration sampling technique to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage distributions.
Findings revealed that journalists in Osun State predominantly use Facebook for gathering news
updates, monitoring public opinion, engaging audiences, and disseminating breaking news. The
platform was found to significantly influence news production and distribution by enhancing
speed, accessibility, and audience participation. However, despite its benefits, Facebook use
among journalists poses ethical challenges such as misinformation, sensationalism, and weakened
adherence to professional standards. The study also established that while Facebook promotes
transparency and accountability in journalism, it demands stricter ethical compliance and media
literacy among practitioners. The research concluded that Facebook has transformed journalistic
operations in Osun State by providing a faster and more interactive medium for information
exchange. Nevertheless, its effective use requires balancing innovation with professionalism. The
study recommends continuous social media training for journalists, formulation of newsroom
social media policies, and the promotion of digital ethics to enhance credibility and accountability
in online journalism.
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