From TCNEWS
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, has declared a resolute stand against the rising tide of quackery and impersonation in journalism, aligning with a national directive aimed at safeguarding professional standards in the media industry.
This resolution formed part of a nine-point communiqué released following the Union’s monthly congress held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the NUJ Press Centre, 66 Aba Road, Umuahia. The meeting was presided over by the Council Chairman, Comrade Chidi Asonye, and co-signed by the Council Secretary, Comrade Ikechukwu Onuegbu.
In a unanimous agreement, the Congress stated that individuals practicing journalism without a valid license, especially those operating under the guise of bloggers or unverified media personalities will be subject to legal consequences under the Nigeria Press Council Act.
Beyond media regulation, the Congress touched on several pressing civic and administrative concerns affecting Abia State: Road Safety and Infrastructure, Civil Service Promotions, Medical City Development, Revenue Collection Irregularities, Sanitation and Hygiene, and Salary Disbursement Issues.
The Union lauded Governor Alex Otti’s administration for ongoing road projects across the state, particularly the reconstruction of Akanu Ibiam and Library Avenue roads. However, it emphasized the importance of proper drainage systems to prevent flooding. The Union also appealed for the installation of speed breakers and a roundabout at the Signboard Junction axis of the Umuahia-Uzuakoli Road, a stretch notorious for fatal accidents.
The Congress appealed to Governor Otti to conclude the long-suspended promotion exercise for civil servants. Many workers have remained on the same grade level for over six years, affecting morale and productivity
The Council commended the government’s efforts to establish a world-class medical facility at Mbasaa, Isialangwa South LGA. Congress welcomed the development as a major step toward making Abia a destination for medical tourism and noted with satisfaction that the access road to the site has already been constructed
The Union raised concerns over alleged unethical practices by some Abia State Internal Revenue Service officials who collected cash from business owners without issuing receipts. Congress reminded the public that the Otti administration prohibits cash payments to curb revenue leakage and promote transparency.
NUJ applauded the launch of the Integrated WASH Accelerated Programme (IWAP), which includes solar-powered facilities and modern sanitation systems. The Union stressed the need for qualified personnel to manage and maintain these public assets..
Congress called for enhanced oversight of the state’s Finance Ministry and MDAs, citing persistent complaints from civil servants over irregular salary payments, unexplained deductions, and failure to implement the new minimum wage across some departments.
The most resolute stance taken at the congress was the Union’s commitment to eradicating quack journalism. The Council reiterated that only individuals certified by the Nigeria Press Council are authorized to practice. The resolution specifically targeted impostors who misrepresent themselves as journalists, often undermining the credibility of the profession.
The communique underscores the NUJ’s pivotal role not only in safeguarding journalistic ethics but also in amplifying public concerns related to governance, safety, and civil service welfare. In doing so, the Union acts as both watchdog and stakeholder in the state’s development process. The communiqué serves as a roadmap for responsible governance, media professionalism, and citizen-focused advocacy in Abia State.
“The integrity of journalism must be protected at all costs,” the communiqué stated. “We will no longer tolerate the invasion of our space by those who have no training, qualification, or ethical understanding of the practice.”
