Neutrality of Facts, Reasons for Success of TheNEWS

 

By Abubakar Hashim 

Contrary to the widely held, fake, false, mischievous, and misleading view that TheNEWS magazine—where I work as the West Africa Bureau Chief—is gaslighting and supportive of sitting governments in the region, where I have so far covered and interviewed seven presidents, the above publications and photos prove that I report facts and constructively highlight the challenges of governments.

This is the primary reason I continue to operate with any government—a key principle of my organisation’s editorial policy.

The publications and photos of the seven presidents I have covered so far speak volumes. I remain neutral irrespective of political colouration. Facts are sacred. Quality, substantive reportage is the hallmark of good journalism and ensures continuity in business, regardless of the government in power.

TheNEWS Magazine is an independent Nigerian weekly news publication launched on 8 February 1993 by the Independent Communications Network Limited (ICNL), a media company co-founded by journalists including Bayo Onanuga, Kunle Ajibade, Babafemi Ojudu, and Dapo Olorunyomi, to deliver rigorous investigative reporting on politics, business, society, arts, health, and the environment, while advocating truth, justice, democracy, and good governance.

The magazine rapidly distinguished itself during the military regime of General Sani Abacha (1993–1998) through bold exposés of government corruption, human rights violations, and abuses of power. This led to multiple bans on its distribution, repeated raids on its offices, and the detention or prosecution of its staff on trumped-up charges such as treason.

Its underground operations and smuggled editions during these crackdowns contributed significantly to galvanising public opposition and supporting Nigeria’s eventual return to civilian rule in 1999, establishing TheNEWS as a symbol of press resilience against authoritarianism.