Vanguard correspondent elected unopposed in NUJ Abia leadership poll
Deacon Steve Oko, the Abia State Correspondent of Vanguard Newspapers, has emerged as the new Chairman of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council. He was elected unopposed during the Chapel’s triennial conference held on Friday at the Chapel’s office located at No. 1 Ojike/Bende Road, opposite the Umuahia North Local Government headquarters.
Oko’s emergence signals a new chapter for the Correspondents Chapel, often referred to as the “engine room” of journalism in the state. The peaceful and uncontested nature of the election reflects the strong confidence his peers have in his leadership and vision for journalism in Abia State.
Other elected officers and peaceful transition of power
Alongside Oko, other members of the newly elected executive team include Comrade Henrietta Ashikodi of The Statesman Newspapers, and Comrade Imo Thomas of Standard Times, who was elected as Treasurer. The formation of this new team is expected to bring fresh energy into the activities of the Chapel.
Swearing in the new officers, Comrade Chidi Asonye, Chairman of the NUJ Abia State Council, commended the peaceful conduct of the election. He emphasized the important role the Correspondents Chapel plays within the broader journalistic landscape of the state.
Describing the Chapel as “the engine room of journalism,” Asonye urged the new leadership to uphold professionalism, journalistic ethics, and truth in their reporting. He expressed optimism about their capacity to revitalize the Chapel and wished them a productive and impactful tenure.
Oko pledges to restore the dignity of the Correspondents Chapel
In his acceptance speech, Deacon Steve Oko expressed deep gratitude to his colleagues for the trust and confidence they placed in him. He acknowledged the numerous challenges facing journalists today, including diminishing respect for the press, poor welfare conditions, and political interference, promising to tackle these head-on.
“It is disheartening that the dignity and respect once accorded the Correspondents Chapel are gradually eroding,” Oko lamented. “One of my top priorities is to restore the image of this great institution and ensure that our voices are not only heard but respected.”
He pledged to prioritize the welfare of members and strengthen professional bonds between the Chapel and other media groups, including the NUJ State Council and other chapels. Oko also praised the outgoing chairman, Chief Obinna Ibe, for his leadership and pledged to build on his legacy.
Media urged to support voter education and democratic engagement
Oko also used the opportunity to encourage journalists in Abia to leverage their role as agenda setters to support voter education campaigns, particularly as the voter registration exercise gains momentum. He stressed the need for the media to play a proactive role in rekindling public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process following the disillusionment that trailed the 2023 general elections.
“As journalists, we must go beyond reporting events. We must lead advocacy for democratic participation. The media can help bridge the gap between voters and the electoral process,” he said.
He ended his remarks by calling for unity, support, and prayers from his colleagues as the new executive embarks on its mission.
Election process conducted in line with NUJ Constitution
Comrade Uche Nwosu, Chairman of the Credentials Committee, confirmed that the election process followed all constitutional procedures as outlined in the NUJ charter. He praised members for their orderly conduct and adherence to democratic norms.
Outgoing Chairman, Chief Obinna Ibe, in his valedictory speech, reflected on his tenure, highlighting his administration’s modest achievements despite the challenges encountered. He expressed satisfaction with the peaceful handover and pledged his continued support for the new leadership.
Dignitaries and NUJ leaders present at the conference
The triennial conference was graced by top NUJ officials, including Comrade Chukwuma Emere, Vice Chairman of the Abia NUJ Council, and Comrade Ikechukwu Onuegbu, the Council’s Secretary. Their presence underscored the importance of the election and NUJ’s commitment to fostering responsible journalism in the state.
With the successful transition now complete, members of the Correspondents Chapel look forward to a new era of revitalization, unity, and professional excellence under the leadership of Deacon Steve Oko.
