News

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

Published

4 months ago

November 3, 2024

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

News

NSCDC, Tantita intensify joint efforts to combat oil theft in Niger Delta

Published

5 hours ago

February 23, 2025

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Tantita Security Services Limited (TSSL) have intensified their joint efforts to eliminate economic sabotage in the Niger Delta, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda set forth by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

As part of his inspection of NSCDC operations in the area, Commandant-General Dr. Abubakar Audi led a group of senior officers to meet with Chief Kestin Pondi, Managing Director of TSSL, and High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, commonly referred to as Tompolo, in Warri and Oporoza, Delta State.

Audi and his team also toured the operational facilities of NSCDC operatives working with Tantita in far-flung creeks of the Niger Delta and other formations to assess their activities and encourage the frontline security agents.

The Commandant-General while paying a courtesy visit to Pondi said his operational tour of the Niger Delta was to enable him get first hand information of his men on ground and strengthen the relationship between the corps and Tantita.

Audi said the NSCDC would celebrate the gallantry of his men on March 1st adding that the occasion would recognise fallen heroes of the corps and empower the families of deceased officers.

He said: “We place high premium on the welfare of our staff that is why every March 1st we recognise our personnel who died on active duty by assisting their families through payment of life insurance benefits and other empowerment schemes.”

In his remarks, the Managing Director, Tantita Security Services Ltd, Mr Kestin Pondi, heaped praises on President Ahmed Tinubu for providing the enabling environment to fight oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

He assured of closer collaboration with security forces including the NSCDC in the ongoing efforts to tackle pipeline vandalism and oil theft.

Pondi said without the collaborative efforts of the NSCDC and other security agencies, the success record would have been impossible.

He said prior to Tantita’s involvement in combating oil theft, production levels hovered around 800,000 barrels per day, adding that the increased production was because of the collaboration with NSCDC.

He said: “The success recorded in the recent past is not without the collaborative efforts of NSCDC. At the moment we have over 450 personnel in our organisation who have been providing collaborative services to our personnel.

“It is worthy of note that as at the time we came on board, the nation was producing between 600000 – 800000 barrels per day in 2022, but as at today we have gone over 2 million barrels per day and this is largely due to our collaboration with you.

A former President, Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, Engr. Udengs Eradiri, hailed NSCDC and Tantita for their mutual relationship saying their operational style was in line with President Tinubu’s leadership approach of community and stakeholders’ engagements.

Describing President Tinubu as a community man, Eradiri said Tinubu’s approach was centered around the people adding that in similar way Tantita and NSCDC approach instilled confidence in people to protect oil facilities within their domain.

“This is in line with President Tinubu’s leadership style. President Tinubu is a community man. His approach has always been about the people. For some of us who have known him for years ago, we are not surprised that he is doing things differently.

“Recall that when he was campaigning he came to the Gbaramatu Kingdom. President Tinubu expanded the relationship with Tantita and consolidated on what he met and that is why the trajectory has been smooth. President Tinubu is the reason Tantita is succeeding and we want to commend him for believing in Tompolo and the people,” he said.

News

Imo govt warns nightclub, lounge proprietors against selling hard drugs to customers

Published

5 hours ago

February 23, 2025

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Imo Government has issued a stern warning to hotel owners and nightclub operators, urging them to refrain from permitting the use of hard drugs within their establishments.

This announcement was made in a statement signed by Chief Ezechukwu Obonna, the Special Adviser to Governor Hope Uzodinma on Narcotics and Illicit Drugs Monitoring, and was shared with journalists in Owerri on Saturday.

According to Obonna, the state government has observed that hard drugs, especially cannabis, popularly called ‘loud’, are now being freely sold and consumed in public places, especially in lounges and nightclubs in the state, as if the drug is no longer prohibited by law.

He warned operators of nightclubs and lounges to immediately put an end to the consumption and sale of hard drugs, particularly in their business areas.

He said that any establishment found to be enabling or permitting the use of hard drugs would face severe consequences.

“The government is issuing this stern warning to lounge and nightclub owners across the state to note that the government will no longer tolerate the use of private businesses as havens for illicit drug use.

“We urge all lounge and nightclub owners to take responsibility for ensuring their patrons are not engaging in illicit activities.

“The Imo State Government is committed to protecting the health and well-being of its citizens, and we will not hesitate to take action against those who compromise this effort,” he said.

He added that the International Narcotics Control Board had expressed concerns about the growing trend of drug use and its impact on public health.

According to him, the Imo Government is taking proactive steps to address this issue and ensure a safer, healthier environment for all citizens.

“We appeal to all lounge and nightclub owners to cooperate with the government in this effort and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities immediately. Together, we can create a safer, more responsible tourism and entertainment industry in Imo,” he said.