Investigative Reporting and Its Impact: The Case of Ralph Leonard

Investigative reporting is about telling the truth, and it also questions the creation of stories to which the public relates and identifies in explaining problems that afflict them.

Investigative journalism seeks to uncover that which is otherwise concealed and thus provide an in-depth look at societal issues.

Ralph Leonard is a young British-Nigerian writer and commentator with the power of diaspora investigative journalism. He has emerged as one of the strong voices in international journalism, especially on political and social issues.

Born on May 9, 1996, in Eastbourne, Leonard spent his formative years in various countries including Nigeria, Poland, Bangladesh, and Ethiopia. This multicultural background has informed his perspective and approach to storytelling.

Leonard started writing from the age of 19 to contribute to urgent global conversations. Most of the work he did ranges from politics and religion in the international domains to humanism, especially wherever a marginalized community is involved.

He has been writing for prominent publications such as The New Statesman, Unheard, The Atlantic, Daily Mail, and Evening Standard among others.

One of the most influential works by Leonard, “Israel: A Settler Colonial State? A Clarification,” was lauded for bringing nuance into a very polarized issue. This essay epitomizes his commitment to the exposure of deep-seated truths and to fostering informed discussion on contentious matters.

In 2022, Leonard was listed as the 5th most powerful Young man in Africa by NBTlive, an acknowledgment of his influence in a media landscape that is often constrained.

The following year, he was named among the Top 10 Influential People in the diaspora by Yessiey magazine, further marking his relevance in discussions surrounding diaspora issues.

These accolades notwithstanding, Leonard has kept the integrity of the work he produces and not his personal accolades in view. His work tends to give meaning to the injustices of society and a voice to the voiceless. He once said his role as a writer is not to enter into politics but rather to use storytelling as a means of advocacy.

Leonard’s style of journalism, in one sense, follows the creed of truth and openness, usually revealing the secret stories that contrast with popular belief. He informed his readers but at the same time stimulated critical discussion; thus, he may be called the most interesting figure in modern journalism.

Writing until today, Leonard has continued the commitment of a career using the platform for stimulating meaningful conversations regarding pressing global problems.

His works are proof of the strength journalism has to let out the light of truth into the public to stir debate toward a higher scale of international matters.