Judiciary

Ogun NUJ: Court Strikes Out Petition Against CP, Olugbenro

By Web News 968

A Federal High court sitting in Abeokuta has struck out the Fundamental Human right suit filed by Mr. Ayokunle Ewuoso and Mr. Sina Oduntan against the Ogun state commissioner of Police and Mrs. Oluremi Olugbenro to challenge their arrest over the assault on female journalists at Iwe Iroyin, Oke Ilewo Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ in February this year. 

Ruling on the suits marked FHC/AB/FHR/33/22 and FHC/AB/FHR/34/21, the presiding Judge, Justice Remi Oguntoyinbo awarded the cost of forty thousand naira against each of the applicants as cost for bringing the second respondent, Mrs. Olugbenro to court. 

Counsel to the first and second applicants, Mr. Ayokunle Ewuosho and Mr. Sina Oduntan, Mr. Deji Eniseyin who was conspicuously absent in court having been served with counter affidavit had filed an application to discontinue the case claiming that the matter had been settled amicably.

Counsel to the second defendant, Mrs. Oluremi Olugbenro, Mr. Gani Ogunsanwo while reacting to the submission that the matter had been settled informed the court that he was not aware of any settlement and asked the court to award costs against each of the applicant if the court was inclined to grant the application for withdrawal.

Mr Ogunsanwo then pleaded that the judge should award fifty thousand naira as cost against each of the applicants for bringing his client to the court.

Counsel to the first defendant, Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Mr Adeyemi Olukoya had also informed the court that he was misled that the applicants had filed applications to discontinue the suit.

Justice Oguntoyinbo in her ruling on the matter, agreed that the applicants had the right to discontinue with the matter, but pointed out that they could not run away from the liabilities.

The Judge stated that the second respondent, (Mrs. Remi Olugbenro) having filed the necessary counter affidavits before the court had joined issues in law and was entitled to cost.

She then awarded the cost of forty thousand naira against Mr. Ayokunle Ewuoso, the first applicant and the sum of forty thousand naira against Mr. Sina Oduntan, the second applicant.

The third suit filed by Mr. Abiodun Taiwo, which was earlier slated for hearing on Tuesday, 19th October 2021 but could not be heard due to the public holiday was however adjourned till 2nd of December 2021 for hearing at the same Federal High Court, Abeokuta.

Wale Oluokun

Politics

NUJ Resolves To Proceed With National Election

By Web News 611

An emergency NEC meeting of the Union was convened online on October 3, 2021, to douse tension ocassioned by a purported court action and to further chart a way forward as it relates to the 7th Triennial Delegates Conference in Umuahia.

It was attended by 72 members.

After a brief presentation by the National President, Chris Isiguzo, and the Chairman, Electoral Committee, Garba Muhammad, a motion was moved by Salihu Alkali, Chairman Nasarawa State Council for the 7th Triennial Delegates Conference to hold as scheduled.

The motion was seconded by Momoh Adeiza, Chairman Kogi State Council,  that election should go on as scheduled since there is no served Court order stopping it, and that should any court process that will necessitate postponement of the election be served, the tenure of the CWC be extended to such a time when elections will be rescheduled.

There was no counter to this.

NEC resolved to proceed with the election from the 6th-7th October, 2021 in Umuahia, Abia State, and that the present CWC is mandated to continue in office if there is any court order that may necessitate a postponement pending when the election will be rescheduled.

Shuaibu Usman Leman,

Walin Shadalafiya,

National Secretary

03-10-2021

News

NUJ Presidential Candidate, Yusuf Idris Condemns Commencement of Campaign Despite Court Order

By Web News 951

The Yusuf Idris NUJ Presidential Campaign Council has condemned in strong terms, the decision of the 2021 Credentials Committee to commence campaigns for the forthcoming National Delegates Conference.

According to a statement signed by the National Coordinator, Yusuf Idris Presidential Campaign Council, Dahiru Muhammad, the decision of the Credentials Committee is in violation of an order by the National Industrial Court sitting in Lagos.

The Court order had restrained the Credentials Committee, the NUJ NEC and the President of the Union, Chris Isiguzo, from pursuing any act for the purposes of conducting election into National offices of NUJ pending hearing and determination of the motion on notice filed before the court.

The statement indicates that the Yusuf Idris Presidential campaign council has decided to halt any process for the launch of it’s campaigns until when the court order is vacated.

The statement reads in part:

“The Credentials Committee has directed for the commencement of campaigns by Friday, 17th September, 2021, in violation of a subsisting Exparte Order made by the National Industrial Court sitting in Lagos in the case filed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Ogun State Council in which the Court expressly restrained the Credentials Committee, the NUJ NEC and the outgoing President of the Union, Chris Isiguzo, from pursuing or executing any act for the purposes of conducting election into the National offices of the NUJ pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice filed before the Court. We have been briefed by our Legal Advisers that despite the expiration of 14 days since the issuance of that Order, it still subsists since the Motion on Notice could not be heard on the earlier set date”.

“Our position is in line with provisions of the Civil Procedure Rules of the National Industrial Court, 2017 as well as other relevant laws and judicial pronouncements in Nigeria.”

“In deference to this Interim Court Order under reference, our Campaign Council has decided to halt any process for the launch of our campaigns until when the Order is vacated. It should be noted that the decision to field Yusuf idris for President of our great Union stems from a desire to not only have a PRESIDENT WITH VERIFIABLE CREDENTIALS but also a National leadership that RESPECTS DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS, ESPECIALLY THE JUDICIARY, which is the last hope of the citizen.

We also note with dismay the reckless and irresponsible partisan actions of the National Credentials Committee in disqualifying some members of our team, including a sitting National Vice President, Edward Ogude and a former National Treasurer, Monic Okechukwu, on frivolous grounds. As Campaign Council let it be known that we are challenging that injustice.”

“Finally, we wish to appeal to our teeming supporters across the country to remain calm, resolute and focused assuring them that we will not rest on our oars until NUJ is rescued from the hands of people lacking in the affairs of honor. We have resolved not to play their game because the era of impunity is fast becoming extinct.”

Kayode Banjo

Security

Amuludun FM attack: FRCN NUJ Calls For Adequate Security To Avert Recurrence

By Web News 593

As reactions trail attack meted on Radio Nigeria Amuludun FM, Moniya, Ibadan over the weekend, there is need for security agencies to beef up security in the radio station to prevent future occurrence of such nefarious act.
The Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, FRCN, Ibadan chapel, Alhaji Nafiu Busari stated this when he paid a solidarity visit on Amuludun FM, Moniya.
Alhaji Busari, accompanied by the secretary of the union, Mrs Anthonia Akanji condemned the attack by the hoodlums.
He explained that the attack will not deter the media from carrying out her duties and called on law enforcement agents to bring the perpetrators of the dastardly act to book.

Seye Arowolo.

Lifestyle

World Press Freedom Day: Osun NUJ Demands Decent Wage For Media Professionals

By Web News 854

As the work marks world press freedom day, government has been urged to create enabling environment for media professionals to practice their trades.

In a statement by the chairman of Nigeria Union of journalists Osun State Council, Comrade and secretary, comrade Bukola Elufadeju stated that media professionals deserved decent life through a special wage owing to their roles in nation-building.

The statement decried the attitude of some media owners to the welfare of their staffs especially non-payment of salaries and other benefits to media professionals while some are paying ridiculous amount to their workers.

It posited that media professionals are playing important roles in the entrenchment of democracy and its sustainability aside from being the key actors in the struggle for democratic system in the country hence the need for their special treatments in the country.

It hinted that many journalists had been killed while other risked their lives daily in the task of sustaining the unity of the nation and project the country for national growth and development.

The statement noted that the theme of this year celebration “information as a public good” attested to importance of information to human existence and survival and it place in promotion of public good as well as good governance.

It explained that the theme also underlines  the  indisputable  importance  of  verified  and  reliable  information as it calls attention  to  the  essential  role of free and professional  journalists  in  producing  and  disseminating  information by tackling misinformation and other harmful content

The statement called on public officers to always give media professionals access to information saying despite the freedom of information act some public officers are still treating some information as classified and confidential.

It maintained that media as the fourth estate of the realm must be seen as formidable partner in the task of nation building.

World Press Freedom Day which was declared by general Assembly of the united nation in 1993 provides an avenue to pay tribute to media professionals who risked or lost their lives in the line of duty. 

Wasiu Ajadosu

News

Prioritise Welfare of Journalists Nationwide- Stakeholders

By Web News 909

Press freedom day is a global event commemorated annually to advocate media independence. 

The United Nations General Assembly declared every May 3rd as World Press Freedom day to raise awareness on the importance of press freedom and also reminded government at all levels of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression as enshrined under Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 

Speaking on the essence of the day, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Ondo State Council, Mr. Adetona Aderoboye noted that press freedom was not only for the development of the media industry but for overall good of the country. 

Mr. Aderoboye who submitted that the press should not be gagged by government described as false the belief across the land that the institution was an intruder. 

Expatiating on the challenges facing the Nigeria Press, Ondo State NUJ General Secretary, Mr Leke Adegbite lamented the poor condition of service of the journalist particularly in the private sector. 

Other journalists who spoke with Radio Nigeria charged government and private organizations to prioritise the welfare of men of the pen profession across the nation.

Shola Oguntoye

Politics

Former Osun Governor Advocates Constitution Amendment For True Federalism

By Web News 528

Former Osun State, Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola has canvassed the amendment of the nation’s constitution to pave the way for true federalism.
Prince Oyinlola stated this Osogbo at the maiden edition of guest platform, a quarterly programme of the Osun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
The former governor said the current constitution as being operated in the country could not guarantee security of citizens and economic development of the country.
He described the country’s security situation as appalling so much that the government was lost in thought on how to proffer solution to it.
Also speaking, the guest speaker who is also former Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin Universitiy, Akungba-akoko, Professor Femi Mimiko said it was obvious that the country was overwhelmed by myriads of security challenges and there was no will power by the government to tackle it
Professor Mimiko noted that there was lack of trust between the government and the governed
In a remark,Orangun of Oke-ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin called for urgent solution the security challenges to sustain the nations unity in diversity.
In his welcome address,The chairman,Nigeria union of journalists, Osun state council, Comrade Wasiu Ajadosu, said the theme, of the lecture “Appraisal of State Security in Nigeria, yesterday, today and tomorrow; the way forward” was burn out of concern of journalists towards emplacing a secure Nigeria.

Wasiu Ajadosu

Lifestyle

NUJ Commiserates With Ogunyemi’s Family

By Web News 659

The Nigeria Union of journalists, NUJ FRCN chapel has expressed sadness over the sudden death of one of its members, Sunday Ogunyemi.

In a statement jointly signed by the chairman, Nafiu Busari and the Secretary, Anthonia Akanji, the Union described his death as a blow to the Union considering the resourcefulness and doggedness of Sunday Ogunyemi to the human race.

The Union urged the members to take solace in the fact that Sunday Ogunyemi lived a fulfilled life.

It sympathizes with the bereaved family, FRCN management and entire members of the Union.

The NUJ pray to God to give the bereaved family the fortitude to bear the loss and prayed for the protection of the members.

Nafiu Busari

Lifestyle

NUJ Loses Member

By Web News 784

It is with Shocked and Pains as Kogi State Nigeria Union of Journalists received the Sudden and untimely death of Mr. Usman Musa Public relation officer (PRO), Ministry of Water Resources, Kogi State. It’s Very Obvious that We lost Him to the Cold hands of death at the Very Crucial time we needed him Most. It is no doubt that Mr. Usman Will be greatly Miss for his Wealth of Experience, Intellectual Mobility and his In-depth Knowledge of Administration

We are Really Saddened and Wish to Convey My Condolences to the entire families of Mr. Usman Musa , the Ministry of Water Resources Over this Sudden loss.

We love him but Allah loved him Most, I Pray that Almighty Allah will Grant the families the fortitude to Bear this irreplaceable loss, forgive all his Shortcomings and Grant him Aljanah fidausi Ameen. Hon. (Dr.) Abdulmumin Danga Commissioner, Ministry of Water Resources, Kogi State.


Kogi Flame

Education

Nigeria needs to create a research-friendly structure – Bowen VC

By Web News 1703

The Vice-Chancellor, Bowen University, Iwo, Professor Joshua Ogunwole, has advocated improved synergy among public and private universities in Nigeria to record breakthroughs in research. 

He maintained that the best way to get a good result in research is to encourage those that have ideas work together. 

Professor Ogunwole spoke on the university Campus in Iwo, while addressing members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Osun state. 

The don stressed that Nigeria must create a research-friendly structure and imbibe the culture of celebrating research breakthroughs and researchers, while putting such output into use on a national level.

Speaking on contemporary teaching and learning activities in Nigeria Higher Institutions, he pointed out that the societal reality of the present generation had changed the nature of parenting and made children independent learners, hence school curriculum should be designed in such a way that students could learn independently with less pressure of supervision.

The Bowen University Vice Chancellor who said the institution pioneered online classes in Nigeria, called on education planners in the country to design a framework for e-learning to make it part of the country’s educational system.

Responding to questions on national issues, Professor Ogunwale who berated the sharp divisions among Nigerians, noted that the development was a strange phenomenon, whose root causes must be honestly investigated and dealt with, saying that all ethnic groups in Nigeria need one another.

Adenitan Akinola

Lifestyle

Oyetola Commiserates With Osun NUJ Chairman Over Death Of Mother

By Web News 952

Osun State governor, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola has consoled the Osun State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Comrade Wasiu Ajadosu, over the death of his mother, Madam Rafatu Ajikeola Ajadosu, who died on Wednesday, at the age of 91.

The governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan in Osogbo, described her death as a painful loss, saying that no matter how old our parents are, their departure is always keenly felt.

Governor Oyetola who also extended his condolences to the entire family of Ajadosu of Ile Esa Oni Ayowo compound, Obaagun area of the state urged them to take heart and be comforted in the fact that Mama was blessed with old age and lived a fulfilled life, in devotion to Allah and service to humanity.

He added that the care and wise counsel of the matriarch would be greatly missed by those she left behind.

Wasiu Ajadosu

Politics

NUJ Promises Adequate Coverage of Delta Election

By Web News 517

The Delta State Independent Electoral Commission, DSIEC, has assured residents that adequate arrangements are in place to ensure a free, fair and credible elections in the forthcoming March 6 council polls in the state.

The Chairman of DSIEC Mr. Mike Ogbodu, stated this at a One Day Capacity Building for media practitioners in the state with the theme: Ethical journalism for Effective Election Coverage.

Mr. Ogbodu expressed the hope that the workshop would enhance the awareness of participants in order to execute their duties according to best ethical standards.

The Chairman of Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Mr. Michael Ikeogwu, while assuring the electoral body of adequate media coverage of the elections, also urges members to prioritize their lives in the event violence on election day.

The guest lecturer at the event Dr. Akpoveta Emmanuel described journalists as observers who monitor and inform the public about election processes, thus the need to constantly upgrade their knowledge of modern electioneering practices.

Eghwere Oghenero

Politics

Don Advocates Agriculture To Boost State IGR

By Web News 694

Osun State Government says it has impacted positively in every sector of the state to improve better living for its citizenry.

The Commissioner for Budget and Economy Planning, Professor Olalekan Yinusa stated this in Osogbo at a public lecture of the Osun State NUJ 2020 press week.

Professor Yinusa spoke on the topic ” Examining Governor Adegboyega Oyetola’s two years of governance in Osun: A journey of transformative leadership or Political rhetoric.

He emphasised that Governor Oyetola was running an inclusive and participatory government to the benefits of citizens and overall development of the state despite the financial challenge poised by COVID 19 pandemic.

Also speaking, another lecturer, Doctor Tunji Ogunyemi of OAU Ile-Ife who said security and welfare of the people were constitutional responsibility of government gave Oyetola administration a good credit.

He urged Osun government to empower local governments to go into massive agriculture to increase their income for developmental projects at grassroots which would culminate into overall development of the state.

Earlier, the chairman Osun State council, Mr. Wasiu Ajadosu said the lecture was organized to hold government accountable and set agenda as such was necessary for good governance.

Abiodun Adeoye

Politics

Electoral Committee Rolls Out Activities For Ekiti NUJ Election

By Web News 691

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ 2020 Electoral Committee, NUJECO, in Ekiti State has fixed December 8 for the conduct of election for new executive members of the State Council.

A statement by the NUJECO Chairman, Mr Raphael Ogbonnaiye and the Secretary, Mr Ayodele Abere says the tenure of the present executive members under the leadership of Comrade Rotimi Ojomoyela will end in December.

The statement advises every qualified members interested in contesting for any of the following positions: Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, Auditor and Assistant Secretary, to see the administrative secretary of the council at the NUJ Secretariat, Okebareke, near old Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti to purchase the nomination forms.

It appeals to various chapels in the state to pay attention to the information and assist the committee in accomplishing its mandate with a view to ensuring unhindered democratic process.

According to NUJECO, campaigns will start on Tuesday, 3rd November and end on Monday, 7th December.

Also, purchase of form by the intending contestants will commence on Thursday, 5th November from the administrative secretary at the Nigeria Union of Journalists’ Secretariat, Old Governor’s Office, Ado Ekiti, and end on Wednesday, 18th November while screening of candidates comes up on Tuesday, 24th November, starting from ten o’clock in the morning.

Similarly, claims and objections will take place on Thursday, 26th November while Manifesto Night is slated for Monday, 7th December, at the NUJ Secretariat and the election is slated for Tuesday 8th December.

The statement implores all chapels to submit the list of delegates to the secretariat on or before 13th of November.

Niyi Alade

Politics

Osun Govt. Congratulates Newly Elected NUJ Chairman

By Web News 758

Osun state government has congratulated Radio Nigeria Correspondent, Comrade Wasiu Ajadosu, on his election as the Chairman of the Osun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.

Ajadosu, who was Acting Chairman of the Council since the vacation of the chairmanship seat by Comrade Kehinde Ayantunji upon his appointment as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Osun state on Students’ Affairs and Social Mobilization, became victorious in the bye-election conducted by the Union.

In a congratulatory statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation Mrs Funke Egbemode, the State Government felicitated with Ajadosu, commending him for holding brief till the bye-election was conducted.

Mr Egbemode expressed optimism that Ajadosu would brought his agelong experience to bear in the management of the union and build a strong Union that would become a symbol of emulation in the country.

She urged the Union to continue to sustain professionalism and sustain the tempo of development currently enjoyed by the union.

Wasiu Ajadosu

Lifestyle

Iyalode Yorubaland, Mrs Lawson Tasks Ogun NAWOJ on Women Development

By Web News 1357

The Iyalode of Yorubaland, Chief Mrs Alaba Lawson has called on the new executives of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, in Ogun state to align itself with the current need of the society and make the promotion of women interest its priority agenda for the association. 

The Iyalode, who made the call while granting audience to the new executives of NAWOJ in Ogun State, led by Comrade Modupeola Sobukonla, noted that an association such as NAWOJ could only retain its relevance by positioning itself to address some of the ills plaguing the society, especially those affecting women and children. 

She equally admonished the new leadership of the association to remain focused in order to fly the banner of NAWOJ high, pledging her continued support for NUJ and NAWOJ.

While expressing joy that the electoral process which produced the new executives was smooth and fair, Chief Lawson harped on the need for unity and harmony among practitioners of the pen profession, who she described as the conscience of the society. 

Speaking earlier, NAWOJ chairperson in Ogun State, Modupeola Sobukonla appreciated the numerous and unflinching support that Iyalode Alaba Lawson, as the grand patron of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in the state had been given to the state council of the union, as well as to NAWOJ in the state. 

She sought further support and assistance from her while emphasising the readiness of the new executives to carry the banner of the association to the greater height.

Chief Lawson was later decorated as Ogun NAWOJ grandmother in a bid to appreciate her show of love and support to the association.

Modupeola Sobukola

Lifestyle

Stakeholders Call for Measures to Tackle Threats to Media Profession

By Web News 630

There is need to convoke a national press constitutional conference that will address the challenges facing Nigerian journalists and improve the standard of the profession.

A journalist and a political communication strategist, Doctor Festus Adedayo made the submission at a virtual workshop organized by the Osun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists 

Speaking on the theme, ‘Journalism under Siege in Nigeria ,the Urgency and Justification for Media Activism’, Doctor Adedayo who condemned the recent verbal attack on Daily Trust correspondent, Mr Charles Eyo by chief Femi Fani Kayode, urged journalists to  develop self confidence.

He expressed displeasure over nonpayment of salary of journalists by some media organizations and noted that this had exposed journalists to economic hardship. 

On his part, another guest speaker and an international journalist, Mr Suleiman Aledeh emphasized the need for training and retraining of media professionals, saying trained journalists would distinguish from the crowd.

Mr Aledeh, who maintained that economic conditions of professionals had affected the practice of journalism in Nigeria, called on media practitioners to have multiple source of income to sustain their self-esteem.

In address of welcome, the Acting Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Osun State Council, Comrade Wasiu Ajadosu said the training would go a long way in equipping media professionals with necessary skills on what is expected of them in the face of provocation.

Some of the participants including Comrade Bukola Elufadejin and Mr Sesan Adeleke said the training had further equipped them with more knowledge about the dictate of their professional callings.

Wasiu Ajadosu

News Analysis

Prevention of Assault on Journalists

By Web News 706

The recent verbal attack on a journalist, Eyo Charles of the Daily Trust newspaper by a former minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode at a news conference in Calabar, Cross Rivers State has brought to the fore harassments being faced by journalists in the country.

The former minister was seen in a viral video threatening the journalist Eyo Charles, who has since claimed that a security aide in the entourage of the former minister confronted him after the news conference.

This of course generated reactions and counter reactions from groups, associations and regulatory bodies demanding that the former minister should apologise to the journalist and give an assurance of his safety in view of the alleged further threats.

Though, the former minister later apologised ten days after the incidents, which many Nigerians believed was not well said.

According to the nation’s Constitution, journalists are saddled with the constitutional obligation of monitoring governance and holding the government accountable to the people, and should not be subjected to harassment in the course of duty.

Section 22 of the Constitution as amended also empowers them to hold those in government accountable and responsible to the masses in line with the dictates of the Constitution.

In the course of upholding the constitutional provisions, journalists are encounter hatred from powerful people in the society because their wrong deeds are exposed to the people, and this has led to occasional and unbridled attacks on journalists.

The story of Dele Giwa, a Nigerian journalist and co-founder of Newswatch Magazine, whose death by letter bomb in 1986 rocked the nation still lingers.

According to findings, he was killed by some top shot in Nigeria while trying to expose some of their atrocities.

The harassment of journalists in the country is becoming rampant, and this had made many brave hearts to chicken out of the profession while some have to be contented with what their organisation dictate what to write.

To put an end to this, national assembly should urgently enact a law that will protect this noble profession, including good funding, good remuneration, security of pen pushers, functional insurance policy and conducive working environment.

When such law is enacted, violators should be dealt with accordingly so as to serve as deterrent to others. This of course will boost the morale of every journalist.

As is the case in other noble profession, journalists should see themselves as one big family irrespective of their organisation, ethnic or years of experience. 

This will automatically make the umbrella body strong and a force to reckon with.

For instance, the boycotting of a media conference organised by Femi Fami –Kayode in Ibadan shows that with one voice, those who call themselves ‘too big to be confronted’ will bend their kneels at the sight of any journalist.

The decision of the Nigeria Union of Journalist to boycott further assignments by Mr. Femi Fani-Kayode as it was witnessed in Akwa Ibom and Oyo states was a good step in the right direction.

Besides this, NUJ must come out in time and sound note of warning to Nigerians who cannot hold their emotions while addressing news conference.

Journalists should be open to their supervisors or editors on what transpire on the field in order to identify loopholes and put adequate measures in place for their protection.

Above all, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, should continually agitate and hold the government accountable by keeping cases of harassment in the news.

Abisola Oluremi

Lifestyle

NUJ Condemns FFK For Insulting Journalist

By Web News 1091

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, has condemned what it described as the gangster-like outburst by former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani Kayode against the Cross River State correspondent of the Daily Trust Newspaper, Eyo Charles

The journalists had asked a question about who was bankrolling Femi Fani-kayode on-going visit to some states of the Federation, an action that prompted verbal assault on the Journalist.

The NUJ in a statement signed by its national president, Chris Isiguzo said in his reaction, Fani Kayode assaulted the journalist and threatened him for daring to ask such a question.

The NUJ said by denigrating the journalist, Fani-Kayode has exposed himself the more as an intolerant person who will not want his activities closely scrutinised by the Media.

The journalist’s umbrella body added that it is instructive to remind the likes of Fani-Kayode that it is the Constitutional right of Journalists to monitor and keep a check on people and institutions in power.

It noted that by delving into politics and holding political office, Fani Kayode is very conversant with the watchdog role of the media.

The NUJ question further that for the former Aviation Minister to have embarked on assessment of projects in some states, even though it is yet to be told under what platform, he is doing so, it is proper for the media to hold him to account for his actions and decisions.

NUJ concluded that Fani Kayode’s reaction was totally unacceptable, dishonourable and reprehensible,while demanding for retraction of his unfortunate utterances which negate simple decorum and civility.

Lifestyle

Bode Oyewole was a hardworking sports administrator – Ojo-Oba

By Web News 1533

Living a life that pleases God should be taken as top priority in every individual’s daily dealings.

The Venerable, Saint Mark Anglican Church, Olomi Ibadan, Dan Oyewole, said this during the funeral sermon of a former chairman, Shooting Stars Sports Club, 3SC and former staff of Radio Nigeria, Elder Bode Oyewole.

Venerable Oyewole who described death as inevitable, said it was important for Christians to live a Christ-like life.

One of the daughters of the deceased, Miss Iyabo Oyewole, who was short of words, maintained that her father was the best in the world.

Former Secretary General, Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Dr Bolaji Ojo-Oba described late Oyewole as a hardworking sports administrator.

Also speaking with Radio Nigeria, a former deputy speaker, Oyo state House of Assembly, OYHA, Mr Tunde Olaniyan said the deceased would be greatly missed for his elderly advice.

Elder Bode Oyewole who died last Tuesday at the age of sixty-eight, retired as principal officer of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Ibadan, was also a former chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Oyo state council, and was the Chief Press Secretary to former Governor Kolapo Ishola of Oyo state.

His body had been laid to rest at the Church Cemetery, Olomi, Ibadan.

Taiwo Akinola

News

Go to court to claim property- Police tell Ademola Babalola

By Web News 997

Oyo state Police Command has directed one Mr Ademola Babalola, who has been parading himself as the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Oyo state council, to opt for legal option in claiming property belonging to the Union from the incumbent Chairman, Mr Adewumi Faniran.
Mr Babalola had written a petition to the Command requesting that all property belonging to the NUJ including bank accounts and other documents be released to him.
On his part, the incumbent Chairman, Mr Faniran explained that he was only acting on the order given by the National Industrial Court which stated that all parties should maintain status quo pending the determination of a suit challenging the eligibility of Ademola Babalola in contesting the Oyo NUJ 2019 elections.
Responding, the Iyaganku area Commander, Mr S.A Oke advised Mr Babalola to seek redress in court, noting that the police could not force Mr Faniran to release the property in his custody as the case was still in court.
It would be recalled that some aggrieved members of the Oyo NUJ had approached the National Industrial Court to challenge the eligibility of Mr Ademola Babalola to participate in the December 18th council election which was eventually postponed by the duly constituted credential committee.

Abisola Oluremi

Politics

Lagos NUJ Chairman Advocates Good Governance to Address Brain Drain in Africa

By Web News 827

Government in Africa must be pressurized to live up to expectation in order to make the continent retain its best brains being lost to other continents in name of greener pastures. 

To do this, the media is in a prime position despite challenges to promote inclusive governance, accountability and rule of law so at to reduce excessive urge in Africans in search for greener pastures elsewhere.

These are the positions of the Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, Dr Qasim Akinreti while speaking at an international virtual summit.

Delivering a key note address at the summit that had participants and speakers from different continents, titled “Media Governance and Economic Dynamics”, the NUJ Chairman posited that media must continue to inform, educate and entertain with the purpose of making government and the people accountable for their actions in the best interest of the society and overall public good.

He noted that in some countries, particularly in Europe and America, citizen’s engagements platforms and tools were available to build consensus on public projects, enhance effectiveness and service delivery such that if a public project failed the test of public scrutiny and satisfaction, the contractors were made to refund tax payers money and prosecuted for nonperformance.

“Since it is the rights of citizens to seek for the attainment of good governance at its best for economic prosperity, people migrate there in droves. These countries in Africa, Europe, America, Asia accordingly. Apart from South Africa, Botswana, and Libya before the death of Gaddafi attracted influx of migrants. Rwanda after its prognosis is now a home for good governance and migrants are now interested in living in that country. 

“Surely, the media have assisted greatly to tell stories of successes in good governance, leading to economic prosperity of some countries and the people are determined to migrate there. But the media have failed to tell other challenging lifestyle of these societies, thus given a false hope to the people who are ready to migrate there. 

“The story of equal opportunity in Europe and America are quite fascinating. But racial discriminations are not given more prominence. The Golden Fleece in the Arab world is not too enticing, but the racial inequalities are not given utmost prominence. Unlike in Europe and American where migrants attain citizenship after a long stay or by marriage, the Arab world does not accommodate these opportunities.” he hinted.

Dr.Akinreti charged the media to explore its position as the fourth estate of realm to fight for public good to bring about accountability and good governance.

“The legislature makes the law to guide policies, the judiciary interprets the law and the executive actualizes the law and policies for public interests and public good. A case in point is the Freedom of Information Act, FOI, in Nigeria. This Act gives everyone access to request for information on public policies from agencies and institutions of government. 

“For this discourse on migration, everyone is entitled to full disclosures on the activities of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM).

“Then the media must change the narrative, make government accountable to implement people oriented policies that will attract economic prosperity. The nexus between the media, governance and economic development are too germane for addressing the challenges of migration. Journalists owe everyone a duty to ensure sustainable development of our society” he added.

Dr. Akinreti said the society equally owes the media tremendous support and the government must provide a virile such as prompt attention on welfare and other sustainable factors for the media to survive.

Adedayo Adelowo

Lifestyle

Osun NUJ Elects New Executives

By Web News 988

The Osun Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ elected new executives to run the affairs of the union for the next three years.

Mr. Kehinde Ayantunji of Osun Defender emerged the new Chairman as he polled 186 votes to defeat his opponent, Mr. Dele Ajayi who polled 62 votes.

Also the post of Vice Chairman was won by Mr. Wasiu Ajadosu of Gold F.M who polled 136 votes to defeat his co-contestant Mrs. Toyin Adeoye of Osun State Ministry of Information, who gathered 110 votes.

Bukola Elufadeju from Local Government Information is now the Secretary of the Council as he polled 130 votes to defeat Mr. Adeyemi Aboderin and Mr. Lateef Agboola who scored 80 and 38 votes respectively.

In his acceptance speech, the new Chairman, Mr. Kehinde Ayantunji promised to lift the union to an enviable height but craved the support and co-operation of members for successful tenure.

Mr. Abdulrasaq Alege of Federal Ministry of Information is the Auditor of the Council, while Mr. Ademola Lawal from State Ministry of Information is the Treasurer, both emerged unopposed.

Meanwhile, the post of Financial Secretary and Assistant Secretary are to be filled at a later date through a bye-election.

Gold FM

Lifestyle

Oyo NUJ, League of Veteran Journalists, Mourn Late Sehinde Dagunduro

By Web News 1147

League of Veteran Journalists and the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Oyo State Council, have paid a condolence visit to the family of a former Chairman of NUJ and a member of League of Veteran Journalists, Mr. Sehinde Dagunduro who just passed on to glory. 

Some of the members of League of Veteran Journalists, during the condolence visit

Addressing, the bereaved, Chairman, League of Veteran Journalists, Mr. Bayo Ogundele and other members of the league including Chief Felix Adenaike and Lanre Ogundipe described the deceased as a dutiful, caring and accomodating colleague who loved the journalism profession.

Some of the members of League of Veteran Journalists and NUJ, during the condolence visit

On his part, Chairman NUJ, Oyo State Council, Mr. Adewumi Faniran said the deceased was a thoroughbred professional and unionist-per-excellence whose activities and leadership qualities were remarkable. 

Responding, a son of the deceased, Mr. Tokunbo Dagunduro said his father’s death was a rude shock to the family, noting that legacies left by his father would always be remembered. 

Adedayo Adelowo

Lifestyle

Oyo NUJ Election: Credentials Committee Releases Names of Contestants

By Web News 799

2019 Credential Committee of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Oyo State Council has released list of contestants for claims and objections ahead of the Council’s election scheduled for December 18.

In a statement in Ibadan by the Secretary of the committee, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi, the list contains detailed information about the contestants while members who have claims and objections against any of them have till 3pm on Thursday, 31st October to forward petitions to the committee.

The statement explains that the list had been pasted at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku while copies had been forwarded to chapels.

According to the list, there are twelve aspirants contesting for all the seven offices in the Council.

The breakdown of the list shows that 2 persons each are contesting for the positions of Chairman, Vice-chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and Financial Secretary while there is just one aspirant each for the office of Assistant Secretary and Internal Auditor.

The statement reiterates the commitment of the committee to ensure that the constitution of the union is followed strictly in the conduct of the election.

Ridwan Fasasi