Marko-Oskari Lehtonen has been nominated for Journalist of the Year at the upcoming SJP gala, celebrating distinguished journalists and journalistic content. The gala will be held in Oulu and broadcast live by Iltalehti at 18:30, along with text updates on related stories. Lehtonen is particularly recognized for his investigative journalism focusing on public power and financial misconduct.

Throughout his career, Lehtonen has made significant contributions to uncovering issues concerning public authority and the use of public funds. His impactful reporting led to the parliament's decision in 2019 to abolish the adjustment pensions of parliament members after he highlighted the system's glaring issues. His work has garnered public interest, and he continues to focus on vital political matters affecting Finnish society.

In 2025, Lehtonen gained further recognition for exposing the controversial internship of President Alexander Stubbs' son and examining other employment-related discrepancies involving government ministers. His investigative approach has advanced accountability in public office, showing the crucial role of journalism in prioritizing transparency and integrity within the Finnish political landscape.