The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has raised concerns over rising insecurity in Ibadan, the lingering power outage at the University College Hospital (UCH), and the increasing rate of drug abuse among young people in the state.
These were part of the resolutions reached at the union’s monthly congress held at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. The congress, presided over by the State Chairman, Comrade Ademola Babalola, also addressed issues affecting health, security, and public welfare.
Rising Insecurity in Ibadan
The NUJ expressed worries over the increasing activities of armed robbers in certain parts of Ibadan, particularly between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. The congress noted that criminals, often operating in tricycles (Keke Maruwa), motorcycles (Okada), and taxis, have been attacking unsuspecting commuters and collecting their valuables at gunpoint.
The affected areas include Mokola Roundabout, Sabo axis, Queen Elizabeth Road, Anfaani Junction, and Iyaganku. The union urged security agencies to take decisive action and called on the Oyo State Park Management System (PMS) to collaborate with law enforcement to curb the menace.
Additionally, the NUJ highlighted the lack of streetlights on Queen Elizabeth Road, particularly around the University College Hospital (UCH), as a factor contributing to insecurity. The state government was urged to address the issue urgently.
Power Outage at UCH and Health Sector Challenges
The union decried the ongoing electricity blackout at UCH, which has lasted for three months due to debt arrears owed to the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC). The congress warned that the situation is severely affecting patient care, research, and hospital management.
The NUJ called for urgent intervention from the Federal Ministry of Power, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), and UCH management to find a lasting solution and negotiate a more sustainable electricity billing system.
Similarly, the congress lamented the poor condition of the morgue at the State Hospital, Adeoyo, Ibadan, where a lack of regular power supply has caused unbearable stench, posing health risks to the surrounding environment. The Oyo State Hospital Management Board and Ministry of Health were urged to take immediate action.
Concerns Over Drug Abuse Among Youths
The NUJ also expressed concern over the rising rate of drug abuse among young people and underage children in Ibadan, particularly in areas such as Apete, Sango, and Eleyele. The congress called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to intensify efforts to curb the menace, while urging parents to take responsibility for their children’s welfare.
Commendation for Governor Seyi Makinde
The union commended Governor Seyi Makinde for rewarding the Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) squad that won both the Nigeria Football League Division One and the West African Football Union (WAFU) Cup in 1998. The governor recently approved land allocations for the players but has yet to fulfill the promised cash reward. The congress urged him to expedite the payment.
The NUJ also lauded the governor for appointing 48 permanent secretaries, including a former two-term NUJ Secretary, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, and for recruiting 902 civil servants and 15,000 teachers in the state.
Call for Action on Freelance Journalists at BCOS
The congress appealed to the Oyo State Government and the management of the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) to revisit the suspended conversion of freelance journalists into full-time civil servants.
Health Awareness and Rising Cases of Sudden Deaths
Expressing concern over the rising cases of people collapsing and dying suddenly, the NUJ urged its members and the public to prioritize their health. The congress particularly emphasized the dangers of high blood pressure, advising regular medical checkups and adherence to expert recommendations on exercise and diet.
Condolences
The NUJ extended its condolences to Governor Seyi Makinde over the death of his eldest brother, Engineer Sunday Makinde, who passed away in January 2025. The union also mourned the recent deaths of Malam Bala and Gbenga Adedeji, both tenants of the NUJ.
The congress concluded with a call for all relevant authorities to take urgent steps in addressing these pressing issues to enhance security, public health, and overall well-being in the state.
