Comrade Churchill Oyowe has secured re-election as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, defeating his challenger, Comrade Kenneth Obieh, by 20 votes in a keenly contested election.
Oyowe, who contested under the Power Consolidation Team, polled 238 votes against Obieh’s 218 votes, according to results declared by the electoral committee. His victory secures him a second three-year term following the completion of his first tenure as chairman of the council.
The election followed a tense and highly charged campaign characterised by allegations of calumny involving some individuals believed to be supporters of the rival Stand Up Team.
Despite the tension surrounding the contest, journalists from across Delta State turned out in large numbers to participate in the election, which was described as one of the most keenly contested and best-attended in the history of the state council.
In other results announced by the electoral committee, Comrade Felix Ekwu of DBS Chapel, Warri, emerged Secretary after polling 237 votes to defeat Comrade Pere Botu, who scored 202 votes.
Comrade Victor Ochie won the position of Vice-Chairman with 241 votes, defeating Comrade Monday Osayande of The Guardian, who garnered 173 votes.
For the position of Assistant Secretary, Comrade Josephine Omodior, contesting for the office for the second consecutive time, polled 267 votes to defeat Comrade Andy Emephia, who scored 188 votes.
The results reflected the competitive nature of the election, with candidates contesting for key positions under different political alignments within the council.
Oyowe’s re-election gives him another three years to lead the Delta NUJ, with expectations that his administration will consolidate the achievements of his first tenure, improve members’ welfare and advance the professional interests of journalists across the state.
However, the closely fought election and the divisions that characterised the campaign present a significant challenge for the returning chairman. The task of rebuilding trust, fostering cooperation and uniting members across the rival camps is expected to feature prominently on his agenda.
With the Power Consolidation Team and the Stand Up Team both represented in the contest for various positions, Oyowe is expected to initiate reconciliation efforts and promote inclusive leadership to bridge existing divisions within the council.
His ability to bring members together after the election is likely to be an important measure of his leadership as he begins his second term, with journalists looking forward to a more united council committed to defending press freedom, protecting members’ interests and strengthening the NUJ in Delta State.
