The Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has elected a new leadership team that will steer the affairs of the council for the next three years, with Akeem Abas of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) emerging as chairman. The keenly contested election was held at the council’s secretariat in Ibadan on Wednesday.
Abas, a member of the Correspondents’ Chapel, secured 143 votes to defeat two other contenders: Raji Adebayo, also of the Correspondents’ Chapel, who garnered 118 votes, and Olusola Oladapo of the Federal Information Chapel, who polled 59 votes.
In other positions, Abiodun Atilola of the State Information Chapel clinched the vice chairmanship seat with 205 votes, beating Sam Nwaoko of the Tribune Chapel, who scored 112 votes. The secretaryship position went to Temidayo Adu of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Chapel, who earned 166 votes against Adeniji Olamide of the State Information Chapel, who polled 149 votes.
In his acceptance remarks, Abas expressed profound appreciation to members of the union, describing his victory as a collective achievement for journalists across the state.
“I deeply appreciate the confidence you have placed in me through your votes. This victory belongs to every journalist in Oyo State who believes in unity, progress and a more vibrant NUJ,” he said.
He pledged that his administration would prioritise fairness, transparency and professionalism, adding that he would work with all chapels and stakeholders to advance the welfare and capacity of members.
“At this juncture, I hereby declare a state of emergency on professionalism,” he added, urging members to unite and move forward with shared purpose.
The posts of Financial Secretary, Auditor and Assistant Secretary remain vacant and will be filled through a by-election at a later date.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State House of Assembly has congratulated Abas on his emergence as chairman. The message was conveyed by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Media, ICT and Public Affairs, Hon. Waheed Akintayo, popularly known as Ilumoka Presenter.
In a statement personally signed and released on Wednesday, Akintayo described Abas’ victory as well-deserved, noting that it reflects his professionalism, integrity and longstanding commitment to ethical journalism.
He said the new leadership signals a promising chapter for the union under a forward-thinking and dedicated chairman.
Akintayo expressed confidence that Abas’ tenure would strengthen the media landscape in Oyo State, promote press freedom and enhance cooperation between journalists and public institutions.
The lawmaker assured the Assembly’s continued support, particularly in the areas of communication, media development and public engagement.
He also urged the new NUJ chairman to prioritise unity within the union, uphold professional standards and promote the welfare and capacity development of journalists.
