RismadarVoice Reporters, April 28, 2026
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has called for urgent government intervention in several critical issues, including the alleged death of a student at Federal Government College, Ikot Ekpene, worsening erosion, and the sale of alcohol to minors.
These resolutions were part of a communiqué issued at the end of the union’s congress held on Monday at the NUJ Press Centre, Uyo.
The union expressed concern over the alleged bullying incident involving a student, Master UfokObong Edwin Godwin, said to be the son of a journalist, and criticised what it described as a slow pace of justice and silence from the school authorities.
Congress urged the Federal Government to ensure a thorough investigation and justice in the matter.
The NUJ also drew attention to environmental challenges in the state, calling on the Akwa Ibom State Government to urgently address life-threatening gully erosion at Nsukara Offot, which it said has already claimed lives.
It further appealed for the rehabilitation of Ukana Offot Street, describing the road as being in a deplorable condition.
On public health and safety, the union warned against the rising exposure of minors to alcohol, citing the proximity of sales points to secondary schools, and called for stricter regulation.
The Congress commended the state government for issuing early warnings over the resurgence of COVID-19 in some neighbouring states, while urging more proactive measures to prevent a possible outbreak.
On professional matters, the NUJ reaffirmed its stance against quackery and the proliferation of splinter groups within the union, announcing the inauguration of a five-man monitoring team and plans to establish an Ethics and Disciplinary Committee.
The union also pledged to participate in the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration on May 1 and announced activities to mark World Press Freedom Day on May 3, themed: “Shaping a Future at Peace: The Critical Role of Journalism in Promoting Peace and Resolving Conflicts in Akwa Ibom State.”
Congress further commended the Sensor Chapel for a successful 2026 Chapel Week and lauded a philanthropist, Obong Jeremiah Akpan, for providing welfare support to families of deceased journalists.
