Akeem Abass of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) has emerged as the new Chairman of the Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), following a closely contested election held in Ibadan.
Abass secured 143 votes to defeat Adebayo Raji, who polled 118 votes, and Shola Oladapo, who garnered 53 votes, while five votes were declared void.
Other elected members of the new executive council include Moses Morenikeji (Treasurer), who polled 173 votes; Temidayo Adu (Secretary) with 166 votes; and Biodun Atilola (Vice Chairman), who emerged with 205 votes.
Speaking after the announcement of results, Ronke Samuel, Vice President, NUJ B-Zone, commended both the Electoral Committee and the Credentials Screening Committee for conducting a transparent and credible election. She praised their commitment to ensuring a smooth transition of leadership within the council.
“We commend them for doing a very good job. I pray that the incoming Chairman and his executive members will perform excellently to further advance the progress of the council,” she said.
Samuel also urged all members—especially those who lost in the election—to cooperate with the new administration for the unity and development of the union.
While formally dissolving the Ademola Babalola-led executive council, she applauded the outgoing chairman for his contributions to the growth of the union.
The newly elected chairman was sworn in by Barrister Jelili Oladehinde Oladimeji, who administered the oath of office.
In his acceptance speech, Akeem Abass expressed gratitude to God, the electoral committees, and all stakeholders who contributed to the successful conduct of the election.
“I stand before you today with a heart of gratitude. This victory is not for me alone but for all journalists who believe in unity. I pledge to serve with utmost commitment and dedication,” he said.
Abass also declared a state of emergency on unprofessionalism within the Oyo State media space, vowing to tackle unethical practices and uphold the highest standards of journalism.
He assured members that his administration would fulfill all electioneering promises and rebrand the NUJ in Oyo State to meet the expectations and aspirations of journalists across the state.
