Ede Agho Launches Campaign for Edo NUJ Vice Chairmanship

From Moshood Karim

On Friday, October 18, 2024, veteran journalist Ede Agho officially launched her campaign for the Vice Chairmanship of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Edo State.

Agho, a respected figure within the journalism community, has spent decades covering various beats for the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

Now, with her wealth of experience and dedication to the profession, she seeks to bring a positive transformation to the NUJ in Edo State.

At the campaign flag-off, Agho expressed confidence in her ability to enhance the NUJ’s operations and improve both infrastructural and human capital development:

“My years at NTA, where I worked on several assignments as a reporter and now serve as an Editor, have prepared me for this important role. I believe the Vice Chairmanship position is one where I can contribute meaningfully by supporting the leadership and working closely with members to advance our collective goals,” Agho said.

She further addressed rumours circulating about her commitment to the Union, particularly claims that she might not be supportive or loyal to the NUJ’s course if elected. “Let me make it clear that my loyalty to the NUJ and its goals is unwavering. I will work in tandem with the entire executive to ensure we achieve the best outcomes for all members of Edo NUJ,” she reassured attendees.

Endorsements and Support

A highlight of the event was the presence of high-profile endorsements for Agho’s candidacy. Dr. Isaiah Osifo, the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the recently concluded Edo 2024 elections, praised Agho’s professionalism and work ethic. Having worked with her during his political career, Dr. Osifo attested to her reliability and urged all journalists in Edo to rally behind her candidacy.

“Ede is a dependable and respectful journalist, with an unwavering commitment to her duties. She has proven time and again that she can be trusted to deliver, and I believe she is the best fit for the Vice Chairmanship of Edo NUJ,” Osifo said.

His endorsement was met with applause from the audience, who were clearly impressed by his glowing review of Agho’s career and capabilities.

Similarly, Orobosa Omo-Ojo, the Director of Publicity for the Edo State APC Campaign Council, highlighted Agho’s qualifications, describing her as the ideal candidate for the Vice Chairman position.
He stated, “No other candidate is more qualified than Ede Agho. Her experience and character make her the best choice, and I encourage all journalists to vote for her.”

Edo NUJ Chairman’s Remarks

The current Chairman of the Edo NUJ, Dr. Festus Alenkhe, also spoke at the event, stressing the critical role of journalism in nation-building. He referenced Chapter 2, Section 22 of the Nigerian Constitution, which empowers journalists to hold political leaders accountable.

According to Alenkhe, it is the duty of the press to ensure that the government remains answerable to the people.
Alenkhe further stressed the need for a Vice Chairman who can provide sound advice and collaborate effectively with the Union’s leadership.

“We need a Vice Chairman who will support the NUJ in its mission to uphold professionalism and integrity. I am confident that the right candidate will emerge in the forthcoming election.” he stated.

Commitment to Progress

Comrade Lucky Efese, the Director General of the Ede Agho Campaign Organisation, also addressed the gathering. He assured attendees that Agho’s candidacy was not about power struggles but rather about complementing and enhancing the existing leadership of the NUJ in Edo State.

“Comrade Ede Agho is not here to engage in any supremacy battles. She is here to add value to the NUJ and support the continued progress that the current leadership has made,” Efese said.

He went on to highlight Agho’s dedication to gender equality and her commitment to promoting policies that would lead to both human and infrastructural development within the Union. Efese described Agho as a “tested and trusted administrator” who has worked tirelessly to uphold the values of journalism and ensure that the profession remains a vital force for positive change in society.

A Promising Future for Edo NUJ

As the event came to a close, there was a consensus among speakers and supporters that Agho is the right person for the job. Her decades of experience, coupled with her integrity and professionalism, make her an outstanding candidate for the Vice Chairmanship of Edo NUJ.

As the election draws near, all eyes will be on Agho, with many hopeful that she will bring fresh ideas and renewed energy to the Union’s leadership.

One supporter at the event told Uptown Press: “Ede Agho is the answer to the Chairman’s prayer, and we are excited to see what she will accomplish as Vice Chairman of Edo NUJ.”