The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, on Saturday hosted the 8th Shina Peller NUJ Ramadan Lecture and Iftar in Ibadan, with Islamic scholar Dr. Adam Akewula tasking journalists on ethics and peace building in the discharge of their duties.
Delivering a lecture titled “The Role of Journalists in Promoting Peace and Security,” Akewula, an Associate Professor in the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies at the University of Ibadan, emphasised that information dissemination must be guided by humanity, professionalism and tolerance.
He noted that journalists occupy a strategic position in shaping public opinion and fostering national stability, urging media practitioners to report religious and cultural issues with utmost sensitivity and responsibility in a plural society like Nigeria.
Earlier in his remarks, the Ayedero of Yorubaland, Chief Shina Peller, clarified that his longstanding relationship with the NUJ in Oyo State is apolitical and not driven by personal ambition.
Peller, a former member of the House of Representatives, explained that his association with the union predated his political career and was built on shared values of truth, fairness and responsible journalism.
He described credible journalism as a cornerstone of national development and encouraged media professionals to uphold ethical standards while exposing corruption, abuse of office and amplifying the voices of marginalised groups without fear or favour.
The event, held at the Dapo Aderogba Hall of the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku GRA, Ibadan, was attended by Peller’s associates, including Alhaji Tajudeen Ajala and Mr. Gbenga Awosoro, PDP stalwarts among others
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the NUJ, Oyo State Council, Mr. Akeem Abas, said that since assuming office on December 9, 2025, his administration had prioritised journalists’ welfare, capacity building, ethical reorientation, digital training and professional unity across the state.
Abas commended Peller for sustaining the Ramadan Lecture and Iftar initiative over the years, noting that the consistency of the programme reflects a shared commitment to professional development and spiritual reflection.
The programme concluded with the breaking of fast and attracted members of the Oyo NUJ, heads of media organisations, veterans and other stakeholders in the media industry.
