Journalistic Responsibilities amid Primordial Pressure

Conflict is a dangerous situation but when appropriately managed and reported, it becomes a blessing to the parties experiencing it. This study examined the responsibilities of journalists and the pressure they encounter while reporting conflicts in Benue State of Nigeria. The study adopted a qualitative research method with 20 journalists purposefully selected from Radio Benue, Makurdi; NTA Makurdi; Sun Rays FM, Korinya and The Pavilion Newspaper, Makurdi including male and female journalists. Research questions focusing on the purpose of the investigation guided the study. A standardized open-ended interview format was used to collect data. The data collected were analyzed using the explanation building model. The result of the research questions showed that there are factors that influence journalists, the pressure that influences the framing of news by journalists, and the strategies journalists employ in reporting conflicts are many. The study revealed that journalists contribute to peace-building before, during, and after crises. The study recommended among others that journalists should be peace-oriented when reporting conflict, especially those cross-border.