By Staff Reporter.
Stakeholders, leaders and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, have expressed optimism over the re-election of Comrade Churchill Oyowe as chairman of the council, calling for unity, improved members’ welfare and sustained development of the union.
Their reactions followed the council’s election held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at the NUJ Secretariat along Maryam Babangida Way, Asaba, where Oyowe, who contested under the Consolidation Team, secured 235 votes to defeat his challenger, Comrade Kenneth Obieh of the Stand Up Team, who polled 218 votes.
The results were announced by Comrade Opaka Dokubo, Vice President of NUJ Zone F, who declared Oyowe the winner of the chairmanship contest, paving the way for his second term in office.
Following the announcement, stakeholders and members across the union’s 18 chapels assessed the outcome of the election, with several commending the Credentials Committee for what they described as a fair and impartial process.
They also praised members for their conduct during the exercise, noting that the peaceful conclusion of the election was important to preserving the unity and credibility of the union.
Stakeholders Express Confidence in Oyowe’s Leadership
Some members who spoke on the outcome expressed confidence in Oyowe’s ability to lead the council for another three-year term, citing his experience from his first tenure and the need to consolidate on existing achievements.
One stakeholder described the re-elected chairman as mature, credible and capable of advancing the interests of journalists in the state.
“Oyowe is mature, credible and capable of handling the affairs of the union. He did it in the last three years, and with the experience gained so far, he will do better,” the stakeholder said.
Another member stressed the importance of continuity, arguing that the council should build on its existing foundation rather than begin afresh under a new leadership.
“The importance of continuity cannot be overstressed. Let us build on what we have started and consolidate rather than starting afresh,” the member said.
The stakeholder added that Oyowe’s re-election presented an opportunity to strengthen the union’s structures, improve its performance and deliver greater benefits to members.
Calls for Reconciliation and Collective Responsibility
Beyond congratulating the winner, some stakeholders called on the defeated candidate, Kenneth Obieh, and his supporters to put the election behind them and work with the new leadership in the overall interest of the union.
They maintained that the election should not create lasting divisions among members, regardless of the platforms on which candidates contested.
One stakeholder advised Obieh to support Oyowe’s administration, stressing that the future of the union should take precedence over electoral differences.
“I would advise Kenneth Obieh to collaborate with and support Oyowe. Elections have been held and a winner has emerged. Whether you contested under the Consolidation Team or the Stand Up Team is no longer the issue. What is important now is the result and the dividends of leadership,” the stakeholder said.
Another member urged the council to harness the experience, resources and contributions of members across the different camps to build a stronger and more respected union.
“The council should put its resources together to build the union to an enviable height rather than operate a divide-and-rule system,” the member said.
The stakeholders expressed hope that Oyowe’s second term would usher in improved cooperation, stronger internal cohesion and a renewed commitment to the welfare and professional development of journalists in Delta State.
Expectations for the New Administration
As the new leadership prepares to begin its second term, members have highlighted welfare, professional development, unity and the strengthening of the council’s institutional capacity as key areas requiring attention.
They also expressed the expectation that the administration would build on previous achievements, address outstanding challenges and ensure that members across the 18 chapels benefit from the union’s programmes and activities.
One supporter expressed optimism about the future of the council, urging members to give the re-elected chairman the necessary support to succeed.
“I believe that with the emergence of Comrade Churchill Oyowe as chairman, better things are in the offing. All we owe him are prayers and support,” the member said.
The reactions reflect a broader expectation among members that the electoral victory should translate into practical improvements in the union’s administration, the working conditions of journalists and the protection of their professional interests.
Aniagwu Assures New Executive of Government Support
The Delta State Commissioner for Information and Rural Roads, Mr Charles Aniagwu, was present at the event to witness the swearing-in of the newly elected officers and reportedly assured the new executive of the state government’s support.
His presence was welcomed by stakeholders, who noted that constructive engagement with the government could help the council pursue initiatives aimed at improving journalists’ welfare and professional development.
However, members also expect the new administration to sustain the NUJ’s professional independence while building productive relationships with government institutions and other stakeholders.
A New Mandate, Greater Expectations
With Oyowe securing a second term after a closely contested election, attention has shifted to how the new administration will unite members, consolidate existing achievements and respond to the expectations of journalists across Delta State.
Stakeholders have urged both the Consolidation Team and the Stand Up Team to move beyond the election and embrace a common commitment to the growth of the union.
For the members, the ultimate measure of success will be the administration’s ability to translate its renewed mandate into tangible results, particularly in the areas of welfare, professional standards, unity and the overall development of the NUJ Delta State Council.
As the new executive settles into office, members are looking forward to a leadership that will not only consolidate on past achievements but also deliver fresh ideas and meaningful progress for journalists throughout the state.
