The Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists has reinstated four previously dissolved chapels, including the Online Media Chapel, marking one of the first major decisions of the newly elected leadership under Comrade Akeem Abas.
The decision was part of resolutions reached at the maiden congress of the council held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Dapo Aderogba Hall of the NUJ Press Centre, Ibadan.
According to a communique issued at the end of the congress, the reinstated chapels are the New Media, 32FM, Daar Communication, and Ajayi Crowther FM.
The congress noted that the chapels were duly inaugurated but were excluded from participating in the December 9 NUJ election by the immediate past administration.
The congress resolved that the chapels be fully restored to all rights and privileges within the union, while mandating the state executive to closely monitor their activities to ensure strict adherence to the NUJ constitution and operational standards.
On union finances, the congress expressed deep concern over alleged non-remittance of funds linked to the NUJ estate.
It noted that a sum of ₦11 million remains outstanding with Alhaji Taofeek Akeugbagold, despite repeated assurances of repayment.
The congress consequently directed the council’s legal adviser to issue a final demand notice, giving a seven-day ultimatum for the settlement of the debt. It resolved that failure to comply would attract legal action.
The congress also condemned the rising insecurity in Oyo State, with particular reference to the recent bandit attack on Old Oyo National Park at Oloka village in Oriire Local Government Area, where five forest guards were killed.
Members observed a moment of sympathy for the victims and extended condolences to their families and the Oloka community.
Calling for urgent action, the NUJ urged the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property.
Specific recommendations included stricter profiling and regulation of commercial motorcycle riders entering the state, strengthened border security, and the deployment of additional security personnel to remote and border communities.
The congress further appealed to state-owned media organisations to scale up public enlightenment on security issues, especially the growing menace of one-chance crimes.
Citizens were also advised to exercise caution when sharing personal information on social media.
The congress however, commended members for their turnout and support at the first congress of the Abas-led administration.
It called on journalists across the state to remain united and committed to the ideals of the union, particularly in defending press freedom, promoting professionalism, and safeguarding members’ welfare.