By Amos Aar
THE NIGERIA Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council, has strongly criticized the continued engagement of Abuja-based media consultants for project appraisals in the state, labelling the practice as detrimental to local media development and a contributor to capital flight.
This is part of a resolution contained in a communiqué issued at the conclusion of the NUJ State Congress held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at its Secretariat in Makurdi.
The session, presided over by the State Council Chairman, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, emphasized the need to prioritize indigenous media professionals who have consistently promoted the state government’s activities.
The Union called for an immediate reversal of the trend, urging the state government to empower local practitioners instead of outsourcing media-related projects to external consultants.
In the communiqué, signed by Kajo Martins (Chairman, Communiqué Drafting Committee), Chira Martins (Member/Secretary), and Ande Elizabeth (Member), the NUJ extended congratulations to Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia on his 59th birthday and second anniversary in office.
While acknowledging his administration’s achievements across various sectors, the Union urged the Governor to expedite the rehabilitation of neglected township roads.
Additionally, the NUJ condemned the use of derogatory language by some of the Governor’s media aides against journalists during a recent public event, warning that such behaviour was unprofessional and unacceptable.
On security matters, the NUJ expressed grave concern over escalating attacks in Gwer East, Gwer West, Guma, Makurdi, Kwande, Otukpo, and Agatu.
It called on security agencies to enhance surveillance to prevent further violence and displacement. The union also denounced extrajudicial killings and harassment of residents by security operatives, describing such actions as counterproductive.
The NUJ commended the state government for abolishing the controversial “marching ground” fees previously imposed by self-acclaimed youth groups. However, it advocated for the establishment of a regulatory body to address arbitrary rent increases by landlords.
In other resolutions, the union celebrated children in the state on the occasion of the 2025 Children’s Day and urged the government to align education policies with Sustainable Development Goal 3.
The NUJ also lamented the relegation of Lobi Stars Football Club from the Nigerian Premier League despite substantial government investment.
It called on Governor Alia to dissolve the club’s current management and appoint a new team capable of restoring its competitive standing.
