The United Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council, has elected Mr. Ekaunkumo Amgbare, State Correspondent of Daybreak Newspaper, as Chairman to lead the chapel for the next three years.
The election took place at the Chapel Secretariat along Azikoro Road, opposite Ernest Ikoli Press Centre, Ekeki, Yenagoa, under the supervision of the NUJ Bayelsa State Council Chairman, Comrade Tonye Yemolegha, and Secretary, Mr. Stanley Imgbi.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Imgbi cited Article 3, Section 13 of the NUJ Constitution, which mandates that candidates possess a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication, Journalism, or Media Studies, along with at least 10 years of professional experience.
Announcing the election results, Chairman of the three-man Electoral Committee, Mr. Tari Okorotie of Daily News, confirmed that 11 out of the 12 accredited members participated in the process. He affirmed that all candidates met the eligibility criteria as stipulated by the NUJ Constitution.
Okorotie commended the State NUJ leadership for honoring the chapel’s invitation to oversee the election and expressed appreciation to the electoral committee and members for their support and peaceful conduct throughout the process.
Other members elected include:
- Vice Chairman: Mr. John Odeh (AIT)
- Secretary: Mr. Chris Mark (Ebony Herald Newspaper)
- Treasurer: Mr. Grey Daukoru (Plus TV)
- Financial Secretary: Mr. Jide Dominic (Sunrise Newspaper)
Mr. Stanley Imgbi administered the oath of office to the new executives.
In his address, Comrade Yemolegha urged the new leadership to prioritize impactful initiatives and uphold the highest standards of journalism. He highlighted his administration’s ongoing support for chapel activities, including the facilitation of regular congresses, prompt remittance of check-off dues, and recognition of the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) certificate by the Bayelsa State Civil Service.
Yemolegha also presented certificates of return to the newly elected officers and congratulated them on their successful inauguration.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Amgbare praised Comrade Yemolegha for his commitment to journalists’ welfare and the infrastructural development at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre. He pledged to promote inclusivity, uphold the NUJ Constitution, and focus on training, skill development, and the establishment of a financial support fund for members.
“I am deeply honored by the trust reposed in me. I will not take it for granted,” he assured.
Independent observer, Comrade David Bekewari West, Chairman of the Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), Bayelsa State Chapter, described the election as peaceful and unified, noting that the emergence of unopposed candidates reflected strong internal harmony.
He urged the new executives to embrace accountability, inclusiveness, and the core principles of journalism, pledging that the CLO would continue to defend the rights of journalists when necessary.
