Emeka Odogwu has been re-elected as the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council.
The highly contested election, held at the NUJ Secretariat in Awka on Friday, drew over 300 members and witnesses from across the state.
Dr. Odogwu, a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, faced off against Mrs. Ngozi Obileri of the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS Chapel), who had served as his vice in the previous administration.
After a keenly contested race, Odogwu emerged victorious with 173 votes, while Obileri secured 40 votes.
The Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Dr. Stanley Onunkwor, also announced that several other positions in the new Executive were uncontested.
Comrade Beatrice Onuchukwu, of the Correspondents’ Chapel, was the only candidate for Vice Chairman, while Dr. Okechukwu Onuegbu, of the Correspondents’ Chapel, ran unopposed for Secretary.
Comrade Chinyere Vera Ogbuagu, from the State Information Chapel, was the sole candidate for Assistant Secretary.
In the contest for Financial Secretary, Grace Onwukwe of the State Information Chapel emerged victorious without opposition. Chibuzo Wisdom Obidike, representing ABS Chapel, won the position of Treasurer with 168 votes, defeating Comrade Ogemdi Ozoemena, who garnered 45 votes.
The newly elected officers were sworn in by Barr. ES Nonyelu in the presence of numerous NUJ members and esteemed guests.
Comrade Eze Adiuku, the Zonal Secretary of the NUJ South-East Zone C, praised the peaceful conduct of the election and congratulated Dr. Odogwu and the new Executive members.
He also encouraged the members to unite and provide full support for the newly elected leadership, reinforcing the importance of cooperation in advancing the Union’s interests.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Odogwu expressed gratitude to the Electoral Committee, voters, and observers for ensuring a smooth process.
He also thanked the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, and other key figures for their unwavering support of the Union.
Odogwu promised to prioritize the welfare of members and continue strengthening the Union during his second term.
Hon. Afam Ogene, the Member representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency, and Chief Ebuka Onunkwor, the Labour Party senatorial aspirant for Anambra South, were present to commend the media for their role as the conscience of society and to reaffirm their support for the NUJ’s mission.
In a special session before the election, Chief Akai Egwuonwu, a philanthropist and APGA senatorial aspirant, emphasized the critical role of the media in societal progress and pledged to remain accessible to both the public and the press, should he be elected to the Senate.
He also shared his plans to address key challenges in the Anambra South Senatorial Zone, highlighting his commitment to public service.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Emeka Humphrey Nwafor, NUJ National Vice President Comrade Emma Ifesinachi, and Comrade Tita Nze, Assistant National Secretary of NUJ.
Certificates of return were presented to the new executives, and oath of office administered to them.
