NUJ Disowns AIBJ, Warns Imo Journalists Against Rival Group

• As Tension Rises Imo NUJ Declares Association Unrecognised And Warns Members Against Participating In its Activities

By Princely Onyenwe | News Desk

OWERRI, IMO STATE — The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Imo State Council, has distanced itself from the Association of Imo State-Based Journalists (AIBJ), declaring that the group is neither recognised, registered nor affiliated with the union.

The development has stirred fresh tension within the journalism community in Imo State, coming weeks after AIBJ elected a new executive led by Comrade Kelechi Ugo as chairman.

In a strongly worded press release signed by the NUJ Imo State Council Chairman, Comrade Ifeanyi Nwanguma, JP, the council said its attention had been drawn to the activities of persons allegedly parading themselves as members or representatives of AIBJ.

The council urged members of the public not to regard AIBJ as an affiliate or representative of the NUJ, noting that recognised professional bodies within the NUJ structure include the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) and Correspondents’ Chapel, among others.

The NUJ also said it would not accept responsibility for any transaction, representation, financial dealings, losses or other consequences arising from dealings with AIBJ or persons claiming to represent the association.

Of particular significance is the warning issued to journalists registered with the NUJ.

The council directed all registered and practising members of the NUJ in Imo State to disassociate themselves from the activities of AIBJ, warning that any member who violates the directive could face disciplinary measures in accordance with the NUJ Constitution and applicable regulations.

The development comes against the backdrop of the emergence of an elected AIBJ leadership in July. Reports indicated that Kelechi Ugo emerged chairman of the Association of Imo State-Based Journalists at an election held in Owerri on July 18, with the new leadership pledging to promote professionalism, members’ welfare and unity within the association.

The latest confrontation therefore places the two organisations on a potentially sensitive collision course, particularly over the question of recognition and representation of journalists operating in Imo State.

The development is also notable because the Nwanguma-led NUJ administration had recently received a vote of confidence from members at a congress, with supporters citing its leadership style, transparency and commitment to members’ welfare.

However, the NUJ has now made its position clear that it does not recognise AIBJ as part of its structure and has urged members of the public to disregard any contrary claim.

The council described its statement as a formal disclaimer to the public and a caveat to NUJ members.

The latest development is expected to generate further reactions within the Imo media community, particularly from members and supporters of AIBJ, as questions arise over the relationship between the two bodies and the implications of the NUJ directive for journalists who participate in the association’s activities.

For now, the NUJ Imo State Council has drawn a clear line, warning that participation by its registered members in AIBJ activities could attract disciplinary action.