By George Ozalla
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the Federal Capital Territory has successfully conducted a by-election to fill three vacant positions in its executive council. The election, which was held on Saturday, saw Sharon Emephia, Daniel Henry Abimiku, and Rosemary Ukoko-Tega emerge as the newly elected Assistant Secretary, Financial Secretary, and Internal Auditor, respectively.
The by-election was keenly contested, with 54 accredited members participating in the voting process. Sharon Emephia from the Correspondents Chapel was elected as Assistant Secretary with 52 votes and two spoiled ballots. Daniel Henry Abimiku of the Information Chapel was elected as Financial Secretary, also with 52 votes and two invalid ones. Rosemary Ukoko-Tega of Aso Radio/TV Chapel was voted in as Internal Auditor with 52 votes and one invalid.
The results were announced by the Chair of the election committee, Mrs. Bassey Ita Ikpang, who was flanked by committee members Mr. Tony Akowe and Mrs. Nkechi Onyeneke. The newly elected officers were immediately sworn in by legal practitioner Barr. Ehidiamen Isibor and presented with their certificates of return.
NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, welcomed the new members and tasked them on welfarism, integrity, and accountability. She thanked members for turning out to vote and praised the electoral committee for running a transparent and credible election. Comrade Ike emphasized the union’s values of unity, ethical journalism, transparency, and above all, the welfare of journalists.
The current members of the NUJ FCT Executive Council include Vice Chairman Comrade Ndambabo Yahaya, Secretary Comrade Jide Oyekunle, Treasurer Mrs. Sandra Udeike, and Ex-Officio Comrade Ebriku John Friday. The newly elected members are expected to work together to promote the union’s values and objectives.
