The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, has expressed concern over rising political violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election, urging security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, to remain neutral and ensure a peaceful electoral process.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the union’s July Congress held on Wednesday at the NUJ Secretariat in Osogbo.
The communiqué, drafted by the NUJ Secretary, Olalekan Akindoju, alongside the Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Abisola Ariwodola, and Francis Ezediuno, was adopted by members after deliberations on issues affecting the media, governance, and preparations for the forthcoming governorship election.
The union expressed concern over increasing political tension across the state, stressing the need for the police to discharge their constitutional responsibilities with professionalism and impartiality to strengthen public confidence.
“The Nigeria Police Force must remain neutral while carrying out its constitutional duties. There is a need for the police to project a positive image capable of earning the trust of the public,” the communiqué stated.
The Congress also appealed to political parties, candidates, and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully throughout the electioneering period, emphasizing that the governorship poll should not be treated as a do-or-die affair.
“Politicians should play by the rules and rein in their supporters. Elections should not be a do-or-die affair,” the union added.
The NUJ further encouraged registered voters who are yet to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to visit designated Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) collection centres, urging residents to reject intimidation and participate freely in the election.
The union also called on security agencies to guarantee the safety of journalists before, during, and after the governorship poll, noting that media professionals must be allowed to perform their constitutional responsibilities without harassment or intimidation.
On workers’ welfare, the Congress commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for approving the permanent employment of 66 freelance staff members of the Osun State Broadcasting Corporation (OSBC).
It also acknowledged the role of Senator Lere Oyewumi, representing Osun West Senatorial District and Director-General of the Accord Governorship Campaign, in facilitating the absorption of the affected OSBC casual workers into the state’s workforce.
The union urged the newly confirmed OSBC employees to justify the confidence reposed in them by demonstrating professionalism, commitment, and dedication to their duties.
The Congress further applauded the Federal Government for rescuing abducted teachers and schoolchildren in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State and urged the Osun State Government to strengthen security around schools and border communities to prevent similar incidents.
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