NUJ Oyo State Council’s Year-End Congress: A Tribute, Commendations, and Calls for Continued Vigilance
At the precipice of 2023, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, convened at the NUJ Press Centre in Iyaganku, Ibadan, for their final monthly congress.
The session, led by State Chairman Comrade Ademola Babalola on December 27, was a poignant amalgam of tribute, recognition, and forward-looking resolutions.
The congress commenced with a somber homage to the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (SAN), former governor of Ondo State.
His passing earlier that day cast a reflective mood over the assembly. Members collectively extended their sympathies to the bereaved families and people of both Ondo and Oyo States, acknowledging Akeredolu’s substantial contributions to Ibadan, where he had spent a considerable portion of his life.
The gathering underscored Akeredolu’s seminal role in instituting the Western Nigeria Security Network, famously known as Amotekun Corps.
This pioneering initiative was hailed for its significant impact on the security landscape of the South West region. Akeredolu’s tenure as the Chairman of the South West Governors’ Forum was particularly noted.
His articulate negotiations and steadfast engagement with the Federal Government were instrumental in establishing the Amotekun Corps.
Moreover, his bravery in addressing regional criminal activities, particularly in the wake of the devastating attack on St Francis Catholic Cathedral in Owo, was highly praised.
In a unifying call, the congress urged the South West Governors to perpetuate Akeredolu’s legacy by supporting and enhancing the Amotekun Corps.
The day also marked the inauguration of Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the seventh civilian governor of Ondo State.
The congress extended congratulations, urging him to shoulder the responsibilities of his new role with commitment and foresight.
Attention then turned to Oyo State, where Governor Seyi Makinde’s hands-on approach to security, exemplified by his nocturnal forest patrol in the Oke-Ogun area, was commended.
This action was seen as a testament to his unwavering dedication to combatting insecurity.
The valor and commitment of the state’s security personnel did not go unnoticed.
However, the congress acknowledged that there remains significant work in ensuring overall safety and security.
The session concluded with a vital call for responsible driving and the importance of collaborative efforts in enhancing road safety.
The communiqué, a product of thoughtful deliberation, was drafted by a committee led by Comrade Seye Ojo, with Comrades Ismail Fasasi and Mosun Akinola.
Sola Oladapo, the State Secretary, played an instrumental role in its documentation, ensuring that the meeting’s essence and resolutions were accurately and effectively conveyed.