Ibadan: The Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has successfully elected new executives tasked with steering the union’s activities for the upcoming three years. Mr. Akeem Abas, an editor associated with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and representing the Correspondents’ Chapel, has emerged victorious as the council’s new chairman, securing 143 votes.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Abas defeated his opponents, Mr. Raji Adebayo of the Correspondents’ Chapel and Olusola Oladapo from the Federal Information Chapel, who garnered 118 and 59 votes, respectively. Additionally, the Vice Chairman position was claimed by Mr. Abiodun Atilola from the State Information Chapel with 205 votes, surpassing Mr. Sam Nwaoko of the Tribune Chapel, who received 112 votes.
Mr. Temidayo Adu of the FRCN Chapel has been elected as the Secretary of the council after obtaining 166 votes, defeating Mr. Adeniji Olamide from the State Information Chapel, who secured 149 votes. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Abas expressed his gratitude and humility, emphasizing his commitment to elevating the union’s stature. He called for the support and cooperation of all members to ensure a successful tenure.
Abas stated, “I stand before you today with a heart full of gratitude and humility. I deeply appreciate the confidence you have placed in me through your votes. This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to every journalist across Oyo State who believes in unity, progress, and a more vibrant NUJ. I pledge to serve with fairness, transparency, and renewed dedication.”
He further articulated his vision for the council, highlighting the importance of collaboration and unity. “There is no winner and no loser in this election. We are one family, bound by the sacred duty of journalism. Let us move forward together in peace and purpose,” he added. Abas also declared a state of emergency on professionalism within the union.
Meanwhile, the roles of Financial Secretary, Auditor, and Assistant Secretary remain vacant and are to be filled through a by-election at a later date.