Delta NUJ Election: Oborevwori Tasks Re-elected Oyowe With Uniting Divided Factions
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated Comrade Churchill Oyowe on his re-election as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, while urging him to unite members following a closely contested election.
Oyowe secured 235 votes to defeat his sole challenger, Comrade Kenneth Obieh, who polled 218 votes. The 17-vote margin highlighted the competitive nature of the contest and the need for the union’s leadership to strengthen internal cohesion.
In a statement issued on Friday in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described the election as free, fair and credible. He also expressed confidence in Oyowe’s ability to provide purposeful leadership and advance professionalism within the journalism community.
Governor Calls for Inclusive Leadership
Congratulating Oyowe and other members of the newly elected State Working Committee, Oborevwori said their victories reflected the confidence their colleagues had placed in them.
However, he stressed that the responsibility of leadership extended beyond those who supported the winners at the polls. Consequently, he urged the re-elected chairman to embrace all members, including those who backed the opposing candidates.
“Lead everybody, not just those who voted for you. The election is over. Now is time for unity. Bring everybody together,” the governor said.
He further encouraged Oyowe to extend a hand of fellowship to Obieh, emphasising that reconciliation would help preserve unity within the Delta State Council.
According to Oborevwori, the NUJ must remain united under the new leadership, particularly as journalists continue to shoulder responsibilities in public information, accountability and professional reporting.
Other Executive Officers Emerge
Meanwhile, the election produced new officeholders across several positions in the council.
Comrade Patrick Ochei emerged Vice Chairman after securing 241 votes, defeating Comrade Monday Osayande, who received 173 votes. Similarly, Comrade Felix Ekwu won the position of State Secretary with 273 votes against the 202 votes polled by Comrade Pere Botu.
In another contest, Comrade Josephine Omodior became Assistant State Secretary after securing 264 votes, while Comrade Andy Emephia received 188 votes.
Three other officers returned unopposed. They were Caroline Ubini as Treasurer, Comrade Toju Oteri as Financial Secretary, and Comrade Michael Ilaya as Auditor.
Focus Turns to Unity & Professional Standards
With the election concluded, attention now shifts to how the new executive will manage differences among members and strengthen the union’s professional responsibilities.
Although the governor described the exercise as credible, the closely fought chairmanship contest makes his appeal for reconciliation particularly significant. Oyowe’s ability to engage supporters of both candidates could help build confidence in the council’s leadership.
Beyond internal unity, the new administration will also face the broader task of promoting ethical journalism, professional development and responsible reporting across Delta State.
Ultimately, the election has produced a new mandate for Oyowe and his team. Whether that mandate translates into stronger solidarity and improved professional standards will depend on the leadership’s willingness to accommodate diverse views and deliver on the expectations of members.
