NUJ Tasks Delegates Committee on Credible Election

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has inaugurated a 7-member credentials committee and charged them to ensure credibility of the Union’s forthcoming election.

The 5th triennial delegates’ conference and election is scheduled to hold in Abuja on June 27.

Speaking before inaugurating the committee, NUJ President, Alhaji Muhammed Garba, urged the members to conduct credible elections the union would be proud of.

“I want you people to conduct the forthcoming elections to be more credible than the just concluded general elections.

“We have covered other elections; it is the time for us to show good example for others to follow,’’ he said.

He commended the committee for commencing its duties even before the formal inauguration, adding that the inauguration was just a ceremony.

Garba said that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the union carefully identified the members, before selecting them.

He said that some criteria ranging from credibility and commitment to the union were considered before the members were selected.

He expressed confidence that the committee would perform creditably well in its assignment.

“The National Secretariat will always be there to render any form of assistance to the committee in order for you to succeed,’’ he said.

He said though the committee was independent, it should not be independent of the National Secretariat, adding that it should always refer to the secretariat for guidance.

The president promised that his office would assist the committee to enable it succeed in its assignment.

“If you cannot reach me, you will definitely reach the National Secretary for any form of assistance regarding the elections.

“I can also assure you that I do not have to be in Abuja for you to reach out to me for any assistance,’’ Garba said.

The credentials committee is chaired by Mr Gbenga Onayiga.

The members are: Aishatu Sule, Abiodun Olalere, Igwe Okoro, Gobum Kadapba and Patric Albert, while Ladi Patrick, would serve as Secretary.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, its chairman, Mr Gbenga Onayiga, expressed delight at the opportunity given to him and the members to serve the union.