In a bid to tackle the Incessant rise of fake journalists and promote professionalism, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Council has inaugurated the Ogun East Independent Chapel and its pioneer executive members.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, on Tuesday, the Council Chairman, Comrade Akinwale Olanrewaju, emphasised the importance of guiding the profession and called on everyone to unite and fight against the spread of unverified information.

He stated that false news had caused numerous issues in Nigeria, and disclosed that the Council was prepared to attack phoney journalists.

His words,  “We understand that Ijebu axis Ogun East senatorial district is a black spot identified in the course of practicing this profession. We realize that we have got prolification of media outfits, especially those who are not qualified to own, run, and practice as journalists. And that is why whenever you look at that end, politically and even in social aspects of life in Ogun state, you realize that a lot of fake reports come from that end. 

“Since we assumed office in the last two and half years, we have issued two statements, warning those people around that place. And I felt that the only best way for us to curb it is to establish a chapel and put those who are qualified. 

“The real journalists that can actually, defend and protect our profession. And that was what gave birth to OgunEast Independent chapel. This profession needs to be guided, it’s important that all of us come together with war against prolification of unconfirmed sources of information. Because purveyors of fake news have dominated our space”.

Also speaking, the National Ex-Officio, Comrade James Sowole, called on the new leaders to maintain ethical standards in their work and characterising the development as a major step towards sanitising the media environment.

While administering the oath of office, the State Secretary, Comrade Bunmi Adigun reminded the executives of their responsibility to uphold discipline, transparency, and cooperation with the state council and cautioned that the council would not allow any negative image.

Those sworn in as pioneer leaders of the chapel include: Comrade Oluseun Oduneye (Chairman), Comrade Charles Adegbite (Vice Chairman), Comrade Funmi Sulodu (General Secretary), Comrade Daniel Johnson (Treasurer), and Comrade Ademola Ogunlana (Assistant General Secretary).

In his acceptance address, Comrade Oluseun Oduneye, the chapel’s newly elected chairman, expressed gratitude to the council for the honour conferred upon them and pledged that the newly elected executives will collaborate to accomplish significant objectives for the council.