The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has issued a stark warning to the state government regarding a breakdown of discipline in secondary schools. During its monthly congress on Saturday, March 14, 2026, the union called for urgent intervention to stop the “rising incidents of cultism” among students.
The congress in an official communiqué issued after the meeting held at the Press Centre in Iyaganku, Ibadan, and signed by the NUJ Oyo State Council’s Secretary, Temidayo Adu, expressed deep concern over “hooliganism, incessant fights and the brandishing of dangerous weapons” within educational institutions. The council urged Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to take “decisive measures,” including sanctions against any schools that fail to enforce strict discipline.
Strengthening the State Security Architecture
While the NUJ acknowledged the government’s developmental strides during the state’s recent 50th-anniversary celebrations, they stressed that safety must remain the top priority.
The congress urged the government to adopt “more proactive strategies aimed at strengthening the state’s security architecture.” Although the council commended the recruitment of 100 Fire Service personnel and the continued investment in the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun) Corps, they argued that more must be done.
“The congress charged government to ensure improved equipment, better welfare for operatives of these firms to function efficiently and effectively.”
A Call for Parental and Social Responsibility
The union was clear that the government cannot solve these social vices alone. The congress stressed that parents must not “abdicate their responsibilities in the upbringing of their children.”
To curb the growing trend of youth violence, the NUJ insisted that parents must play “more active roles in instilling proper values.
Additionally, the council highlighted several urgent public welfare needs:
- Flood Prevention: The “urgent clearing of streams and rivers” before the rainy season begins.
- Education: Sustained efforts to return out-of-school children to the classroom.
- Equity: The “equitable distribution of developmental projects” across all zones of the state.
NUJ Passes Confidence Vote in Akeem Abas
Despite the focus on state security, the congress also addressed internal union matters. Members passed a unanimous vote of confidence in the State Chairman, Comrade Akeem Abas, and his executive team.
The leadership was praised for its “purposeful leadership” and “remarkable achievements” within their first two months. This includes new welfare packages, a successful training series, and the renovation of the Iyaganku Press Centre.
