By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has charged members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, to remain neutral, apolitical, and uphold the ethics of the journalism profession in the discharge of their duties.
Speaking at the 2025 NUJ Press Week and Award Ceremony held on Thursday at the NUJ Press Centre, Osogbo, the Governor, represented by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, emphasised the need for journalists to value their role in promoting truth, accountability, and social responsibility.
Adeleke noted that media professionals must not be seen as loyal to any political party, urging them instead to maintain integrity and fairness in their reportage.
“I can only advise that the NUJ should be apolitical under any circumstance. No matter the situation, don’t accept gifts that compromise your neutrality. If anyone donates to the NUJ, ensure it is used to benefit the Union as a whole. But when souvenirs carry political party names or logos, it is wrong to accept them. The NUJ represents the Fourth Estate of the Realm and must remain neutral.
“If the PDP presents anything to you, use it officially for the Union. If the APC does the same, use it for the Union. You are not to be political,” Alimi said.
The Governor congratulated the leadership of the NUJ, led by Comrade Wasiu Ajadosu, for a successful tenure and commended the union for its contributions to democratic development and public enlightenment in the state.
Earlier in his welcome address, Comrade Ajadosu described the annual Press Week as an opportunity for journalists to celebrate themselves and recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to societal growth.
He expressed concern over the failure of some state officials nominated for NUJ awards to honour the invitation, calling for improved partnership and mutual respect between the media and public institutions.
Ajadosu also addressed the recent controversy surrounding the use of T-shirts bearing the image of a governorship aspirant during NUJ activities, which had caused unease in some quarters.
He reaffirmed the union’s non-partisan stance and commitment to maintaining professionalism.
Highlighting the theme of this year’s Press Week, “Governance and Security in Nigeria: Progress, Challenges and Future Directions,” Ajadosu said the event was aimed at assessing Nigeria’s governance structure, the impact of insecurity, and exploring solutions for sustainable national development.
“The quest for a prosperous nation has not been achieved due to the failure of successive administrations to address issues of economy, political instability, infrastructural decay, quality education, power supply, unemployment, and insecurity,” he stated.
“There is an urgent need to review our constitution to reflect present realities and ensure welfare, security, justice, and fairness for all citizens,” he added.
He reiterated the NUJ’s commitment to promoting accountability, transparency, and constructive debate on governance in line with Section 22 of the Nigerian Constitution.
The ceremony featured the presentation of awards of excellence to distinguished personalities and journalists who have contributed to media development and public service in Osun State