A new book on crime journalism authored by the Editor-in-Chief of Atlanticnewsonline, Frank Oshanugor, is set to be publicly presented in Lagos today, with dignitaries from the security, banking, media, and maritime sectors expected to attend the event.
The book, Crime Beat Reporting in Nigeria, will be unveiled at 10 a.m. at Osun Hall, Lagos Airport Hotel, in what is expected to be a significant gathering of media professionals, security experts, academics, and industry leaders. The event is aimed at highlighting the importance of crime reporting in Nigeria and the role journalists play in documenting crime, law enforcement activities, and the justice system.
Chairman of the presentation committee and Vanguard Crime Editor, Emma Nnadozie, said the ceremony would bring together key stakeholders from various sectors who have an interest in crime reporting, security, and national development. According to him, the book provides deep insight into crime journalism in Nigeria, drawing from the author’s years of experience covering crime, security, and investigative stories.
The event will be chaired by a former military intelligence officer, Davidson Akhimien, while the book will be formally presented by industrialist, Richard Agbapuru. A review of the book will be delivered by Chijioke Uwasomba of Obafemi Awolowo University, who is expected to provide an academic perspective on the relevance of crime reporting and its impact on society.
Veteran journalist and Queen of Apomu, Osun State, Janet Afolabi, will serve as the Mother of the Day, adding a cultural and media dimension to the ceremony.
The book, Crime Beat Reporting in Nigeria, is expected to address the challenges, risks, and responsibilities associated with crime journalism in the country. Crime reporting is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous and sensitive areas of journalism, often requiring reporters to work closely with law enforcement agencies, visit crime scenes, interview victims and suspects, and investigate criminal networks.
Media analysts say crime journalists play a critical role in society by informing the public about criminal activities, exposing wrongdoing, and holding institutions accountable. However, the profession also comes with risks, including threats, intimidation, and legal challenges, making ethical standards and professional training essential.
According to the organisers, the book presentation will also serve as a platform for discussing the future of crime journalism in Nigeria, especially in an era of digital media, citizen journalism, and rapid information dissemination through social media platforms. Experts are expected to discuss how journalists can balance speed and accuracy while reporting crime stories, as well as how to ensure responsible reporting that does not jeopardise investigations or court proceedings.
The author, Frank Oshanugor, is a respected crime journalist with many years of experience covering law enforcement, criminal investigations, and the judiciary. His work in crime reporting has contributed to public awareness on security issues and the justice system, and his new book is expected to serve as a guide for young journalists, media students, and professionals working in the crime and security reporting field.
Dignitaries expected at the event include representatives of security agencies, bank executives, maritime industry stakeholders, media executives, academics, and journalism students. The gathering is expected to provide an opportunity for networking, knowledge sharing, and discussions on improving crime reporting and security communication in Nigeria.
Organisers say the public presentation of the book marks an important contribution to journalism literature in Nigeria, particularly in the specialised field of crime reporting, where there are relatively few local textbooks and professional guides.
As the media industry continues to evolve, stakeholders believe that publications such as Crime Beat Reporting in Nigeria will help train a new generation of journalists who are better prepared to handle the complexities of crime reporting while upholding professionalism, ethics, and public interest.
