Osun NUJ condemns election violence, urges peaceful governorship poll

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Osun State Council, has condemned the rising incidents of political violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

The union also called on security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Police, to remain neutral and ensure a peaceful electoral process across the state.

The position was contained in a communiqué drafted by the NUJ Secretary, Olalekan Akindoju, with NAWOJ Chairperson, Abisola Ariwodola and Francis Ezediuno and issued at the end of the union’s July Congress held at the NUJ Secretariat in Osogbo on Wednesday.

The communiqué was adopted by members after deliberations on issues affecting the media, governance and preparations for the forthcoming governorship election.

The Congress expressed concern over the increasing political tension in the state and urged the Nigeria Police Force to conduct its operations professionally and impartially in order to strengthen public confidence.

The communiqué stated that the police should “remain neutral while discharging their constitutional responsibilities. There is a need for the Nigeria Police Force to project a positive image capable of earning the trust of the public.”

The journalists also appealed to politicians and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully throughout the electioneering period, stressing that the governorship poll should not be treated as a do-or-die affair.

“Politicians should play by the rules and rein in their supporters. Election should not be a do or die affair,” the communiqué stated.

The Congress encouraged all registered voters who are yet to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, to visit Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, designated centres for collection, urging residents to reject intimidation and participate freely in the election.

The NUJ called on security agencies to guarantee the safety of journalists before, during and after the governorship election, noting that media professionals must be able to carry out their constitutional duties without harassment or intimidation.

On workers’ welfare, the Congress commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for approving the permanent employment of 66 freelance staff members of the Osun State Broadcasting Corporation, OSBC.

The union also acknowledged the contribution of Senator Lere Oyewumi, representing Osun West Senatorial District and Director-General of the Accord Governorship Campaign, towards the absorption of the affected OSBC casual workers into the state’s workforce.

The Congress urged the newly confirmed OSBC employees to reciprocate the government’s gesture by demonstrating greater commitment, professionalism and dedication to their official responsibilities.

The communiqué also commended the Federal Government for the rescue of abducted teachers and schoolchildren in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State and urged the Osun State Government to strengthen security around schools and border communities. 

Osun NUJ condemns election violence, urges peaceful governorship poll