From Moshood Karim
The Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Sunday hosted a vibrant and well-attended Reggae Night in celebration of Bob Marley Day, combining entertainment with recognition for excellence in journalism. The event, tagged Reggae Music Extravaganza, was held in Benin City and drew journalists, media stakeholders, and government dignitaries from across the State.
Declaring the event open, the Chairman of the NUJ Edo State Council, Comrade Festus Alenkhe, described the gathering as a unique opportunity for journalists to unwind from the rigours of their demanding profession and to honour colleagues who have distinguished themselves in the field.
“This is a special event designed to give our members a chance to relax, celebrate Reggae music, and most importantly, pay tribute to those whose commitment and contributions to journalism in Edo State have stood out,” Alenkhe said.
Reflecting on the often relentless pace of journalism, Alenkhe noted: “Many times, journalists hardly have time to rest. We’re constantly chasing stories from one event to the next. Today gives us the chance to pause and recognise excellence among our ranks.”
He used the occasion to reiterate the importance of journalistic ethics, urging media professionals to ensure balance and fairness in their reporting. “We always remind ourselves: in the pursuit of accurate journalism, if one person is accused in a story, it is the duty of the journalist to seek the other side of the story. This balance is what separates credible journalism from yellow journalism. Here in Edo State, we reject one-sided stories.”
Alenkhe also praised the developmental strides of the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo, particularly in the area of infrastructure. “The current administration has made commendable progress, especially in road construction, school renovation, and the building of flyovers. As journalists in Edo State, we are not only proud of this but have resolved to carry out independent inspections of these projects.”
A major highlight of the evening was the posthumous award presented to the late Mr Bankole Balogun, the first General Manager of the former Bendel Broadcasting Service (BBS). Widely acknowledged as a pioneer in Nigerian broadcasting, Mr Balogun was recognised for his ground-breaking contributions to investigative journalism and his mentorship of younger journalists. According to the NUJ, his legacy remains a benchmark for journalistic integrity and excellence in Nigeria.
Representing the Balogun family, Barrister Oladele Bankole Balogun, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Internal Revenue Service, accepted the award with emotion and gratitude. “I’m extremely proud to receive this honour on behalf of my late father. My mother, who is still alive, is deeply touched by this gesture and has asked me to thank the entire NUJ leadership.”
Barrister Balogun announced plans to establish a legacy project in his father’s name. “In honour of my father’s work and memory, I will set up the Bankole-Balogun Media Foundation here in Edo State. It will serve as a testament to his dedication to journalism and will support the profession he so deeply believed in.”
Also recognised on the night was Mr Francis Onoiribholo, the oldest practising journalist in Edo State. With a career spanning over 50 years—including coverage of the Nigerian Civil War—Mr Onoiribholo remains active in the field, currently serving as the State Correspondent for Daily Independent newspaper despite being over 70.
In his acceptance speech, Mr Onoiribholo expressed profound gratitude to the NUJ for the honour. He credited his journey in journalism to Pius Agun, Executive Director of Publications at the Observer Group of Newspapers, who introduced him to the profession in 1974. He also dedicated the award to Chief James Ibori, publisher of Daily Independent, for his enduring support.
The Reggae Night was as much a celebration of music and culture as it was a tribute to journalistic excellence. Attendees danced to timeless Reggae hits while reflecting on the legacy and continued impact of journalism in the development of Edo State and Nigeria at large.
The event ended on a note of camaraderie, commitment to journalistic ethics, and optimism for a future where excellence in media practice is continually upheld and celebrated.