NUJ pointer chapel passes votes of confidence in Gov. Oborevwori, others

 

By Sunny A. David

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), The Pointer Chapel, has passed a vote of confidence in the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and the leadership of the Delta Printing and Publishing Corporation (DPPC), publishers of The Pointer newspaper.

In a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting held on July 14, and jointly signed by the Chapel Chairman, Comrade Godwin Nzemeka, and Secretary, Comrade Patrick Mgbodo, the union also threw its support behind key officials overseeing the state’s media and public information sectors.

The union specifically endorsed the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu; the Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Mr. Harold Ojji; and the DPPC Board of Directors led by Pastor Austine Igbine.

The statement also addressed recent reports circulating on social media alleging internal crisis and unqualified leadership within the DPPC. The union dismissed these claims as false and malicious, describing them as attempts by unnamed individuals to undermine the authority of the Governor and disrupt the institution’s stability.

"The claim that there is a breakdown of law and order at The Pointer is entirely false," the communiqué stated. "The work environment remains peaceful, with staff members carrying out their responsibilities without interference."

The union emphasized that the appointment of the current General Manager, Mrs. Rosemary Nwaebuni, was constitutionally made by Governor Oborevwori and in full accordance with his powers. It warned that any attack on her appointment amounts to a challenge to the Governor’s legitimate authority.

In defending Mrs. Nwaebuni’s credentials, the union highlighted her extensive qualifications, noting she holds a degree in Mass Communication—making her the first to do so in that role since the pioneer GM, the late Dr. Elo Ekeli. With over 20 years of journalism experience, including positions such as Title Editor and Political Editor, Mrs. Nwaebuni was described as a seasoned professional with both local and international exposure.

The NUJ also criticized those behind what it termed a "defamatory campaign" against the current management, accusing them of lacking the professional standing to level such accusations. It called for an investigation into their activities and cited a history of absenteeism among some of the accusers.

The union concluded by reaffirming its confidence in the leadership structure of the DPPC and commended the administration for ensuring continued stability, professionalism, and innovation at The Pointer.

“The NUJ, The Pointer Chapel, fully supports Governor Oborevwori; Mr. Charles Aniagwu; Mr. Harold Ojji; Pastor Austin Igbine and members of the DPPC Board; GM Mrs. Rosemary Nwaebuni; and the immediate past board Chairman, Olorogun (Dr.) Ebenezer Okorodudu, for their invaluable contributions to the growth of the state-owned media organization.”

The union urged the public and professional bodies to disregard the negative reports, describing them as baseless and lacking in credibility.

“The NUJ, Pointer Chapel, remains committed to truth, integrity, and the protection of journalistic standards,” the statement concluded.