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Rep Ikwechegh vs Uber Driver, Case Adjourned Until November 8th, 2024

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By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The magistrate, Kuje Magistrate Court, Abubakar Umar Sai’id has adjourned the case between Alex Mascot Ikwechegh and Uber driver to November 8, 2024.

Ikwechegh was recently caught on camera assaulting a Bolt driver.

A viral video showed Ikwechegh slapping the driver who delivered an item to the lawmaker in his Abuja residence. The incident happened last Sunday evening.

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Many Nigerians condemned the development as the video of the incident went viral on social media.

The lawmaker was later arrested and questioned by the police for the action for which he later apologised on Tuesday

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Corruption and Accountability in Journalism: A Call for Reform within the NUJ-FCT Council

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Journalism remains a critical profession that educates the public, ensures governmental accountability, and immensely enriches societal discourse. It strives to uphold ethical standards and maintain public trust, even in the face of challenges presented by a rapidly evolving media landscape.
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) is instrumental not only in safeguarding the rights of journalists but also in influencing the media landscape within Nigeria. The union actively promotes the professional development of its members, advocates for press freedom, and contributes to the enhancement of democratic processes in the nation.
A comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities encountered by the union is critical for fully appreciating the contemporary dynamics of labour relations, the rights of workers, and the welfare of journalists.
Regrettably, developments within  the NUJ-FCT Council in the last six ( 6) years has fallen short of the noble ideals and expectations of the founders of the union.The council is marred by corruption, self- serving and largescale unwholesome practices among its leadership. These issues not only undermine the union’s  effectiveness but also jeopardise the integrity of the journalism profession.
The council’s misappropriation of its resources for individual benefits has engendered an atmosphere of profound mistrust and misgivings.
The allegations of extortion through the improper use of the council’s letterhead for clandestine deals are particularly alarming and extremely worrisome.
Furthermore, the practice of communicating with high-ranking public officials and politicians across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to intimidate them with spurious allegations for the purpose of financial exploitation underscores an immediate necessity for systemic reforms within the council.
During electoral cycles, the parties that embody an “entitled mentality” within the council are able to perpetuate their dubious practices and reinforce the status quo by effectively sidelining independent-minded individuals who seek to contest for various elective positions in preference for those selectively handpicked  and “anointed” by the coterie within the council.
The clique prefers “anointing” individuals with questionable reputations, particularly those with documented cases of financial misconduct and corruption in anti-graft agencies. This strategy enables them to leverage blackmail and exert control over these individuals to ensure compliance with their personal demands.
Given that the council lacks annual appropriations from the government, its primary asset is its goodwill. Thus, it is important to entrust this intangible asset to individuals who demonstrate integrity and can be trusted.
In the last six (6)years, there has been no evidence of audited financial statements from the council, and all financial transactions have been conducted in a state of complete obliqueness.
For example, tens (10s) of millions of Naira was collected from the electronic shop within the premises of the council, the details of the transaction has been shielded in secrecy and they are expecting to receive and share the rent money of the same property which is due for renewal before the end of 2024.
This raises an important question regarding the identity of the individuals who serve as signatories to the council’s bank accounts.
Therefore, it is imperative to dismantle the entrenched cabal within the NUJ-FCT Council in the upcoming elections by ensuring that only independent-minded candidates of integrity are elected to the various positions.
In conclusion, this call for reform extends beyond a mere transition in leadership; it seeks to restore the council’s credibility in its role as a guardian of journalistic values. It underscores the necessity of prioritizing the collective welfare of its members over individual interests, thereby reaffirming the council’s commitment to ethical journalism and the broader journalistic community.
Maryann Eze
Public Affairs Analyst
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I never said churches should be dismantled -Peter Obi

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By Gloria Ikibah

 

The Labour Party leader, Peter Obi, has responded to what he described as a “mischievous distortion” of his recent statements on religion and productivity.

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The clarification follows reactions to Obi’s recent interview, which some headlines falsely suggested called for the “dismantling of churches” in Nigeria.

According to a statement by the Spokesperson Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), Ibrahim Umar, this misrepresentation “greatly overturned and grossly distorted” the true message Obi intended to convey.

Umar emphasized that Obi, known for his strong faith and respect for all religions, sought to address how Nigerians could make religion more effective in their daily lives. In the interview, Obi highlighted the biblical teaching that “faith without works is unhelpful,” referencing Apostle James’ words in the Bible (James 2:14 and James 2:24). His point, they said, was to encourage Nigerians to balance worship with productive work.

“When Obi said that he would turn night vigil into a production night, he was only stressing the importance of worshipping God through work,” the statement read.

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Obi’s office explained that he meant night vigils should not replace productive effort, aligning with his message of turning Nigeria “from consumption to production.”

POMR cited more biblical references to support Obi’s view on the need for work, including Proverbs 14:23, which states, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” The statement added that in the Bible, Jesus chose his disciples from among working individuals, such as fishermen and tax collectors, rather than those who were idle.

Obi’s media team stated that his comment that “politics and church… have to be dismantled” was a call for change in worship practices that encourage a productive mindset while maintaining faith. His other statement, “We are going to turn night vigil into night shift so that people can be productive,” was intended to inspire Nigerians to see work as a form of worship.

Umar therefore urged the public to disregard the “mischievous” headlines and understand Obi’s message as one that seeks to build a productive society.

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“OBI’S message should resonate properly away from the intention of mischief makers,” Umar stated, reinforcing Obi’s campaign promise to drive Nigeria towards a more production-focused future.

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Amidst FCT-NUJ Election Imbroglio : Defending Integrity Against Baseless Allegations

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In the world of media and journalism, where words can build bridges or burn them, it becomes imperative to uphold facts, dignity, and professionalism. The recent commentary, “Who Wants to Set the FCT NUJ Ablaze,” unfolds as a classic case of misinformation, one that seeks to undermine the achievements and resilience of the NUJ FCT Council. As the saying goes, “A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is still putting on its shoes.” Now, let’s lace up and set the record straight.
The article paints an image of chaos, alleging that the recent Congress was infiltrated by a “rented crowd” made up of so-called “beer gulpers” and “marijuana smokers.” This derogatory claim is nothing more than a cheap shot aimed at discrediting the council members and the diverse, respected professionals who make up our ranks. How convenient that those once seen as pillars of loyalty are now recast as miscreants, all because the winds of fortune have shifted. The idea that these professionals suddenly became hired troublemakers is akin to accusing a gardener of plotting against his own flowers—a laughable notion, if not so deeply insulting.
The accusations go further, suggesting that supporters of a particular candidate plotted to hijack the meeting, bringing bottles and weapons. However, evidence is conspicuously absent. Instead, these sensational claims bear the hallmark of desperate storytelling, where a dramatic narrative is prioritized over verifiable facts. “Empty barrels make the loudest noise,” and it appears that noise is being used to distract from the genuine accomplishments of the council.
The criticism directed at the newly constituted Credentials Committee reveals a selective understanding of democracy. The committee’s decision to elect its officers independently reflects not only a respect for our democratic processes but also an unwavering commitment to fairness and transparency. It is rich with irony that those who claim to value democracy suddenly bristle when it does not bend to their will. The parable of the sour grapes comes to mind here, where the real grievance is not procedural missteps but outcomes that fail to satisfy personal ambitions.
Biblical analogies are sprinkled liberally throughout the original write-up, likening committee members and supporters to villainous figures such as Nebuchadnezzar and Dagon. Yet, these references fall flat when scrutinized. Just as the ark of integrity stands firm, the NUJ FCT Council remains a sanctuary of ethical journalism. The story of King Solomon and the true mother serves as a poignant reminder: those who genuinely care for the union would never risk tearing it apart. The Credentials Committee, in its wisdom, acts as a guardian, ensuring that the union’s integrity is preserved.
The notion that the National Secretariat is complicit in a scheme to destabilize the council is speculative at best, and inflammatory at worst. The union has always operated with an eye toward unity, not division. The comparison to King Solomon’s wisdom should extend to understanding that the real goal is to nurture, not destroy. It is a peculiar form of criticism to attack the very body that has safeguarded the union’s interests and upheld the principles of its amended constitution.
Now, let’s address the allegation of selective constitutional application. The writer decries a supposed preference for Article 4 over Article 3, implying an inconsistency that does not hold up under scrutiny. The interpretation of constitutional provisions must always be contextual and holistic. Just as one cannot cherry-pick laws to suit a narrative, one cannot twist constitutional guidelines to serve a fleeting agenda. As any true scholar of governance would know, constitutional interpretation is a nuanced art, not a blunt instrument wielded in the service of ego.
What is truly disconcerting is the veiled threat that those who disagree are poised to “pull down the entire NUJ structure.” This rhetoric, laced with ominous undertones, does more to destabilize than any purported actions of the Credentials Committee. Wise elders, as the article rightly reminds us, do not burn down the clan simply because their views are challenged. It is time for all parties to adopt a mindset of constructive engagement rather than resort to divisive tactics.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approach to governance, marked by inclusivity and national healing, should serve as a model for us all. His appointment of individuals across the political spectrum demonstrates a profound understanding of leadership that transcends personal vendettas. The NUJ FCT Council, too, embodies this spirit, striving to represent diverse interests while upholding the highest standards of professionalism. If President Tinubu can extend a hand across party lines for the good of the nation, surely we can extend a hand within our ranks for the good of our union.
In closing, let us remember that the NUJ is built on the foundations of journalistic integrity, fairness, and accountability. The Credentials Committee, operating within the bounds of our constitution, is working to ensure a transparent and credible electoral process. It is the duty of all members to respect this process and the decisions that arise from it. As the adage goes, “When the character of a man is not clear to you, look at his friends.” The Credentials Committee has friends in those who value truth and democratic principles.
To the skeptics and critics, we extend not disdain but an invitation: join us in building a stronger, more united NUJ. Together, we can weather any storm, guided by the light of integrity and the shared mission of advancing the noble profession of journalism.
Emmanuel Osuagwu
Public Affairs Analyst
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