The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has voiced serious alarm over the deteriorating security situation throughout Nigeria, noting the steady encroachment of insecurity into regions previously considered safe. This was contained in a communique released after the South-South Zonal Executive Council meeting held on Saturday in Calabar, Cross River State.
NUJ Calls for Enhanced Security Measures
The union urged state governments within the South-South zone to bolster their security frameworks and decisively address emerging threats. The meeting, chaired by the South-South (Zone F) Zonal Vice President, Comrade Opaka, advocated for intensive community policing, thorough profiling of individuals entering communities, and stronger collaboration between residents and security agencies to tackle security challenges.
Concerns Over Military Uniforms in Wrong Hands
While acknowledging the proactive steps taken by governments across the South-South region to protect lives and property, the zone emphasized the need for increased vigilance regarding vehicles escorted by men in military uniforms. This follows concerns about the proliferation of military-style uniforms among non-state actors.
Commendation for Government Projects
The zonal leadership commended the Cross River State Government for its developmental achievements within three years of its administration. It also praised the Federal Government for progress on the Calabar–Itu Highway project, urging authorities to expedite its completion along with other critical road projects in the region to alleviate commuter hardship and reduce road accidents. Additionally, the meeting applauded the Federal Government for completing the Aba–Ikot Ekpene Highway, describing it as a major boost to regional infrastructure.
Call for Environmental Remediation
The union called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward environmental remediation in oil-producing communities in the South-South and to conduct comprehensive environmental impact assessments to address the long-term effects of oil exploration and production.
Focus on Governance Ahead of 2027 Elections
It also urged governments in the region not to allow political campaigns and re-election activities to overshadow governance, but to remain focused on delivering democratic dividends while conducting political activities responsibly. The zonal leadership reaffirmed its commitment to the unity, growth, and progress of the union, pledging continued advocacy for good governance, security, infrastructural development, environmental sustainability, and journalists’ welfare. It appealed to journalists in the region to uphold professional ethics and report responsibly during the electioneering period ahead of the 2027 general elections.
