Imo NUJ hails judgement over union’s press centre

The Imo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has lauded a high court ruling that blocked the sale of its secretariat on Port Harcourt Road, Owerri, by individuals it described as self-styled leaders of the union.

In a statement jointly issued by State Chairman Precious Nwadike and Secretary Ori Martin, the union hailed the judgment by Justice C.A. Ononeze Madu as a pivotal decision that safeguarded the profession’s reputation.

“We are overjoyed by this judgment, which not only nullified the transfer of the secretariat to Enedo General Services but also restored faith in the justice system,” the statement read.

The NUJ accused former state chairman Chris Akaraonye, ex-national president Christopher Isiguzo, and others of conspiring to sell the property without member approval, alleging that Enedo General Services used coercive methods to seize control of the premises.

The union criticized judicial missteps, such as the incarceration of individuals linked to the secretariat without due process, and called on the judiciary to address corrupt practices that undermine public confidence.

“We call on the judiciary to hold accountable those who exploit their positions to perpetuate injustice. This ruling is a wake-up call to clean up the judicial system,” the statement added.

The union expressed gratitude to members who pursued the case through the courts, culminating in the December 4, 2024, judgment that invalidated the sale and nullified the leadership of Akaraonye and others involved in the alleged conspiracy.