The Chief Press Secretary to the Bayelsa State Governor, Daniel Alabrah, has extended his congratulations to Tonye Yemoleigha on his election as Chairman of the Bayelsa State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
Yemoleigha emerged victorious in the keenly contested union election held on Saturday, November 16, 2024.
In a statement issued on Sunday 17 November 2024, Alabrah described Yemoleigha’s success as a testament to the delegates' and council members' confidence in his leadership vision and campaign promises.
The governor's spokesman noted that the outcome reflects the broad-based trust reposed in Yemoleigha to effectively steer the council's affairs and foster growth within the union.
Alabrah also urged the new chairman to uphold the principles of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in his administration.
He emphasized the need for Yemoleigha to deliver on his campaign commitments, unite the council, and advance the dignity and integrity of the media in Bayelsa State.
He further called on the new leadership to introduce innovative and creative ideas to elevate the council’s profile and enhance the professional standing of journalists in the state.
“The election of a new NUJ chairman should not be a winner-takes-all scenario. The media profession represents a noble calling and should serve as a beacon of exemplary leadership,” Alabrah stated.
He added, “I congratulate Mr. Tonye Yemoleigha and the newly elected executives of the Bayelsa NUJ Council. May their tenure herald a new era of progress for the council, its members, and journalists at large.”
The NUJ Bayelsa State Chapter held its election under the supervision of a five-member Electoral Committee chaired by Mpaka Dokubo, Vice President of NUJ Zone F. Other officials present included Zone F Secretary John Angesse and Bayelsa NLC Chairman Simon Barnabas.
At the end of the election, Yemoleigha secured 213 votes, narrowly defeating his rival and immediate past Secretary, Ogio Ipigansi, who polled 206 votes. Inebaraton Preye emerged as Vice Chairman with 238 votes, overcoming Ebiowei Lawal, who garnered 181 votes.
The newly elected executives, who will serve a three-year term, are expected to strengthen the union's operations, foster unity among journalists, and champion initiatives that advance journalism in Bayelsa State.
