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By Kingsley Abavo, Benin
Ahead of the general election of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council, slated for December, the State Executive Council has taken a crucial decision to ensuring a free, fair and credible exercise.
Arising from an emergency meeting on Tuesday, SEC; main decision making organ of the Union, unanimously resolved to allow provision of the Union’s Constitution: ‘Article 3(1) and (2) regarding who should vote to prevail.
Article 3(1) and (2) reads:
1a. A person shall not be a member of the Union, except if registered by the National Secretariat of the Union on the recommendation of the State Council.
2a. In addition to the provision in Article 3(1), a person to be so qualified shall also possess a minimum of Diploma and cognate experience in Journalism or Mass Communication obtained from a recognized institution, with a working experience of not less than 12 months in a recognized media establishment.
At the meeting, supremacy of the Union’s Constitution in determination of issues as they arises was reaffirmed by the body.
This follows some Chapels; units of the State Council importation of strange names, onto their list of members to be accredited as voters for the election, barely a month away.
The body frowned at the act which it noted, was antithetical and dangerous to the spirit and life of the Union’s Constitution.
Adding, that it was not only ambushing, but tilted towards manipulating the election in favour of preferred candidates.
“We as members of the fourth estate of the realm, cannot afford to be like the politicians we write about always, the body said.
“Hence, the sanctity of our Union’s Constitution must be held dear at all times.”
Chairman of the State Council of the Union, Sir, Comrade Roland Osakue presided over the meeting.
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