By John Dike, Osogbo
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, has commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for approving the permanent employment of 66 freelance staff of the Osun State Broadcasting Corporation (OSBC), describing the decision as a significant boost to workers’ welfare and morale.
The commendation was part of the resolutions reached at the union’s July Congress held at the NUJ Secretariat in Osogbo and presided over by the State Chairman, Comrade Adeyemi Aboderin.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the congress, the union also acknowledged the role played by the Senator representing Osun West Senatorial District and Director-General of the Accord Party Campaign Council, Senator Lere Oyewumi, in facilitating the absorption of the affected workers into the state’s workforce.
The Congress urged the newly employed staff to justify the confidence reposed in them by demonstrating dedication to duty and maintaining professionalism in the discharge of their responsibilities.
The journalists also expressed concern over the rising incidents of political violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, calling on security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, to remain neutral, impartial and professional in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
According to the communiqué, security agencies must conduct themselves in a manner that inspires public confidence and strengthens trust in the electoral process.
The Congress further appealed to political parties, candidates and their supporters to embrace peaceful conduct throughout the electioneering period, stressing that elections should not be approached as a do-or-die affair.
The union also urged all eligible voters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) from designated Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) centres and participate peacefully in the governorship election without fear or intimidation.
The NUJ called on security agencies to guarantee the safety of journalists before, during and after the election, noting that media practitioners must be allowed to perform their constitutional duties without harassment, intimidation or threats.
The Congress equally commended the Federal Government for the successful rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State and urged the Osun State Government to strengthen security around schools and border communities to prevent similar incidents
The communiqué was signed by the Communiqué Drafting Committee chaired by the NUJ Secretary, Comrade Olalekan Akindoju and other members of the committee
