Ogun state journalists reverse stand to blackout Governor Abiodun’s activities

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council has made a detour on earlier decision to blackout Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration on coverage of his activities, which was hinged on alleged non-fulfilment of promise to appoint members of the union into his cabinet

Penpushing reports that in a volte- face, the union in a statement on Monday jointly signed by Wale Olanrewaju (Chairman) and Bunmi Adigun (Secretary) declared that the body of journalists have rescinded its congress’ earlier stance as contained in its communique issued at the end of the March edition of its monthly congress to blacklist coverage of events of the state government.

The statement explained that the earlier communique was not to jeopardize the image and goodwill of government or severely undermine the strong media bonding the union has shared with it, but was only appealing to the Governor on promises made to them

‘The union wishes to clarify that the said communique was not to jeopardize the image and goodwill of government or severely undermine the strong media bonding the Union has shared with it, but actually meant to remind and appeal to the governor on various promises he made, as they affect the welfare and well-being of journalists, when he visited the Iwe Iroyin Press Centre in August, 2023’, the statement reads.

‘Understanding the crucial statutory roles of the press to keep the public informed about the activities, programmes and policies of the government, and as well shining a light on important issues as they affect the society, the union acknowledges that prompt rescission of the earlier decision remains sacrosanct, believing that it is through a press that a transparent and functioning democracy can be achieved’.

Penpushing further reports that the union admitted that the Governor has been media friendly who has greatly demonstrated unequaled commitment to promoting a free press and unwavering resolve to developing journalists through various support mechanism

‘It is important to emphasize that Prince Dapo Abiodun has been a media friendly Governor, who has greatly demonstrated unequaled commitment to promoting a free press and unwavering resolve to developing journalists through various support mechanism. To this, he has shown greater zeal not to break the bond between him and the Union within the short period of time a rapprochement was achieved.

Penpushing also reports that the union explained that the current disturbing situation may have been due to a seeming communication gap between the body of journalists and the government, stressing that a noise within the channel distorted feedback.

‘We therefore acknowledge that current disturbing situation may have been due to a seeming communication gap between the Union and the government, which is one of the vital points raised during one of our meetings with the Governor, as a noise within the channel distorted the feedback gotten on our requests and expectations’.

‘However, the union, having done all needed consultations and interfacing, has come to realise that government has not reneged on its promises to journalists, as it has kept its words with the populace, but ambiguous feedback informed the union’s earlier decision. The Union therefore wishes to state unequivocally, that it remains grateful and appreciative of Governor’s gestures to the union under the leadership of Comrade ‘Wale Olanrewaju’.

‘The union, consequently assures Governor Dapo Abiodun of its renewed commitment and rejigged efforts at ensuring that the “Building Our Future Together” agenda of his administration succeeds, directing that members should be dedicated to objective reporting and keep the public well informed in advancing our democracy and ensuring transparency and fulfillment of commitments made to the people of our dear State’, the statement added.

FOOTNOTE: You want to share story with us? You want to advertise with us? You need publicity for product, or service, or   event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348073463653 or email [email protected]