…Warns journalists against wearing politicians’ branded apparel

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has faulted the practice of conducting West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) papers late into the night, describing it as unsafe and unacceptable, while also urging the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to urgently review its examination timetable.

The union also warned journalists against wearing branded apparel and promotional materials of political parties or politicians, saying such conduct undermines the ethics, neutrality, and credibility of the profession.

These resolutions were part of a communiqué issued at the end of the NUJ monthly congress held on Saturday, J at the Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, presided over by the State Chairman, Mr. Akeem Abas.

The communiqué, which was signed by the Secretary of the NUJ Oyo State Council, Temidayo Adu, was drafted by Oluwakayode Banjo, Bunmi Ishola, and Oluwafunbi Bello.

On the conduct of examinations, the congress expressed concern over reports of candidates being made to sit for WASSCE papers late into the evening, warning that such scheduling exposes students to avoidable risks.

It therefore called on WAEC to review its examination structure and ensure that no paper is conducted beyond reasonable hours, urging that any examination not concluded by 4:00 p.m. should be rescheduled in the interest of students’ safety and welfare.

The congress also condemned the increasing spread of fake news, misinformation, and unverified content on social media, urging strict enforcement of cybercrime laws to curb the dissemination of false information capable of triggering panic or insecurity.

Journalists were further urged to uphold professional ethics by verifying all information before publication, particularly on sensitive security matters.

In one of its key resolutions, the congress strongly cautioned media practitioners against identifying with political actors through the wearing of branded clothing or promotional materials at public events, warning that such practices erode public trust in the media.

It also urged members of the Union to maintain objectivity and avoid actions capable of compromising journalistic integrity, especially in politically sensitive environments.

On security, the congress expressed deep concern over the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, calling on government and security agencies to intensify efforts towards their immediate and safe rescue.

While commending ongoing efforts, the NUJ stressed the need for stronger deployment of intelligence, technology, and operational strategies to curb rising cases of kidnapping and banditry across the state.

The union further reiterated its support for the establishment of State Police, describing it as a necessary step toward addressing Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.

It also urged security agencies to leverage digital tools and intelligence platforms to track and prosecute criminal networks, particularly those circulating violent content on social media.

On infrastructure, the congress called on the Oyo State Government to urgently address the deteriorating condition of the Agodi Gate Motor Terminal, citing issues of disorderliness, poor sanitation, and operational inefficiencies.

It also decried alleged exploitative practices within the terminal, including the handling of waybill items through intermediaries, which it said often leads to unofficial charges imposed on recipients.

The NUJ further urged members to exercise caution when attending press conferences, warning against holding media engagements in unsecured or unsafe environments given the prevailing security situation in the country.

On internal union matters, the congress expressed disappointment over the failure of Alhaji Taofeek Akewugbagold to fully offset his outstanding financial obligations to the Union, noting that only ₦2 million had been paid out of the ₦11 million debt despite earlier assurances.

It therefore urged him to immediately settle the outstanding balance to avoid further action.