The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ekiti State council, has denied allegations that the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji is harassing journalists in the state, describing the claims as baseless, politically motivated and inconsistent with the realities of its engagement with government.
The clarification followed a statement by the campaign committee of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate under the aegis of Oluyede Campaign Council which accused the Oyebanji-led government of mounting pressure on journalists and attempting to suppress unfavourable reports.
In a statement signed the NUJ Chairman, Ekiti State Council, Kayode Babatuyi on Thursday, expressed concern over what it termed the unwarranted attempt by the campaign council to involve the union in its political expedition.
It described the action as meddlesome interference in affairs of an independent professional body, warning political actor against seeking relevance by invoking the name of NUJ in campaign narratives.
The NUJ stressed that any individual or group with grievances against Governor Oyebanji should explore appropriate channels without attempting to enlist the union as a tool in political rivalry.
The union reaffirmed that its relationship with the state government is anchored on strategic dialogue, mutual respect, and democratic engagement rather than confrontation instigated from outside its constituted structure.
While restating the union commitment to holding public office holder accountable through balanced and factual reportage, the NUJ cautioned against inflammatory rhetoric capable of eroding public trust in democratic institutions.
The council further warned the PDP and its members to desist from appropriating the union’ voice for political advantage, insisting that it will resist any attempt to politicise its mandate.
It, however, advised the campaign team to focus on legitimate and issue-based political engagement instead of dragging the union into partisan contest, stressing that the NUJ will not serve as a platform for political battles.
Reassuring the public of its neutrality, the NUJ maintained that it would continue to operate with professionalism, fairness, and responsibility, undeterred by external pressure or political provocation.
It stressed that the council remained a professional and non-partisan body committed to ethical journalism, press freedom, and the welfare of its members, insisting that it should not be drawn into partisan disputes.