NUJ Apolitical, Can’t Back Aspirants — Oyo NUJ
NUJ apolitical, can’t back aspirants — Oyo CouncilNUJ apolitical, can’t back aspirants — Oyo Council
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has firmly debunked a media report alleging that the union endorsed Hon. Stanley Dhikrullahi Olajide, describing the claim as misleading, mischievous and gross misrepresentation of facts.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Akeem Abas, and Secretary, Temidayo Adu, the council said the report authored by Tolu Mustapha was not only inaccurate but also capable of dragging the union into partisan politics, contrary to its constitutional mandate.
The council stressed that the NUJ, as a professional body, remains apolitical and does not align with or endorse any political aspirant or candidate, regardless of party affiliation or personal relationship.
According to the statement, the visit to Hon. Olajide, popularly known as Odidiomo, was purely a courtesy call and should not be misconstrued as a political endorsement or declaration of support.
“The attention of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has been drawn to a misleading publication alleging that the union has thrown its weight behind Hon. Stanley Dhikrullahi Olajide.
“This claim is entirely false, baseless and a figment of the writer’s imagination,” the statement read.
It added that the NUJ leadership, alongside some members, visited the lawmaker in the spirit of professional engagement and stakeholder relations, which is part of the union’s routine interactions with public office holders.
The council further cautioned journalists and media practitioners to uphold the ethics of the profession by ensuring accuracy, fairness and objectivity in their reports, warning against sensationalism and deliberate distortion of facts.
The NUJ also urged the general public to disregard the said report, reiterating its commitment to professionalism, neutrality and the promotion of responsible journalism in Oyo State and beyond.
The statement reaffirmed that the union would continue to engage relevant stakeholders across sectors without compromising its non-partisan stance or credibility.