Media personality Oga Obinna has responded to investigative journalist John Allan Namu’s criticism of podcasters and content creators who receive money from politicians, saying he does not consider himself a journalist.
Obinna explained that his business, Obinna TV Studios, is a media production company focused on digital content, entertainment and creative work rather than traditional journalism.
Speaking about his work, he said his company’s main asset is its digital content, adding that interviewing people does not automatically make him a journalist. “I’m not a journalist. I do have my company. It’s a media company that focuses on just productions. We do content production, meaning our biggest asset is digital assets,” he said.
He explained that his work includes scripting, comedy and music, as well as interviewing guests for content. He also said he has employed journalists to handle journalism-related assignments within the organisation.
What John Allan Namu said about podcasters
Obinna’s remarks come after Namu questioned the independence of some podcasters and content creators who receive money from politicians to organise events or produce content while presenting themselves as independent journalists.
Namu raised concerns about the growing relationship between politicians and digital content creators, arguing that financial arrangements can compromise the credibility of media platforms.
He questioned the practice of receiving money from politicians under the guise of organising events while also presenting oneself as a journalist holding leaders accountable.
The investigative journalist also warned that such arrangements could contribute to the perception that media practitioners are available to promote the interests of those who pay them.
Namu’s concerns centred on the distinction between paid political promotion and independent journalism, particularly when content creators do not clearly disclose the nature of their financial relationships with politicians.
Obinna explains the role of his company
Responding to the criticism, Obinna maintained that his platform is primarily focused on entertainment and content production. He said journalism involves activities such as research, investigations, fact-checking and holding leaders accountable, which are not the main focus of his company.
Instead, he said he aims to inspire, motivate and entertain audiences through the content produced by his team.
Obinna also pointed out that his company has journalists, distinguishing his role as a content creator and media entrepreneur from the professionals responsible for journalism-related work.
