The executive leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun-East Independent Chapel, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Department of State Services (DSS) office in Ijebu-Ode.

The visit was aimed at familiarizing the newly inaugurated chapel with the security agency and officially announcing its establishment in the Ogun-East Senatorial District.

During a meeting with the head of Operations in Ijebu-Ode, the NUJ Ogun-East Chairman, Comrade Oluseun Oduneye, explained that the creation of the chapel was part of the state council’s vision to extend union activities to journalists operating within the district.

He added that the initiative would help ensure adherence to union agreements while safeguarding members’ professional and welfare interests.

Also speaking, the Chapel Secretary, Comrade Funmi Adewoju Suleodu, noted that many journalists practicing in Ogun-East are independent reporters and editors, making it essential for them to come under the umbrella of the NUJ for protection and professional regulation.

She emphasized that one of the union’s core objectives is to defend press freedom and protect journalists in the legitimate discharge of their duties. However, she lamented that these freedoms are sometimes abused by untrained individuals who parade themselves as journalists.

“Many of those who claim to be journalists in this area are not qualified professionals. Some see journalism as a quick means of making money, and this practice tarnishes the image of the profession", she said.

“Part of our mandate is to sanitize the media space and ensure that only properly trained and accredited journalists are allowed to operate,” she added.

Comrade Suleodu further disclosed that the State Council Chairman had specifically mandated the Ogun-East Chapel to monitor the ethical conduct of practitioners in the area and rid the profession of quack elements.

In his remarks, the Head of the Task Force, Comrade Daniel Dairo, stated that the union deemed it important to build a working relationship with the DSS, as both institutions rely on each other in the course of their operations.

“The media and security agencies are interdependent. We will be working closely together to maintain peace, transparency, and professionalism in our coverage and operations,” Dairo said.

Responding, the DSS local government security chief (LGSC), Mr. Hope Godwin, expressed appreciation for the visit and delight at meeting the NUJ leadership shortly after his posting to the region.

He noted that the union’s objectives align closely with those of the security agency, stressing that cooperation between both bodies would foster mutual understanding and public safety.

“I’m particularly excited about this visit because I’ve been thinking about stakeholders to collaborate with, and your union is a vital partner in maintaining stability and proper information flow,” he remarked.

“You can count on our support as we work together,” he assured.

Also present at the meeting were Comrade Dare Majekodunmi and other DSS officials.

- Story from NUJ, Ogun-East Independent Chapel