NUJ condemns sales of caskets in Ondo hospital

…as Union urges govt to address security, health and welfare issues at Congress

The Ondo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists has held its last congress under the leadership of its outgoing chairman, Prince Leke Adegbite, with a call on the government to address pressing issues affecting workers, security, and healthcare in the state.

The congress, held at the Press Centre, Alagbaka, Akure, was well attended by journalists from various chapels and presided over by Adegbite, who expressed gratitude for the support he received throughout his three-year tenure. He commended the state executive members for fostering unity and progress within the council.

During deliberations, the congress addressed a wide range of issues, including politics, economy, security, and the welfare of members. Among its key resolutions was an appeal to the Federal Government to address irregularities in the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage for federal workers, particularly those in the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), and Voice of Nigeria (VON).

The congress also praised the swift action taken by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa in responding to recent security challenges in the state. It, however, urged the government to further equip security agencies with necessary tools, including vehicles, drones, and trackers, while also recruiting more personnel for the Amotekun Corps to enhance security operations.

In the health sector, the congress lamented the deteriorating state of healthcare facilities in Ondo State and called on the governor to declare a state of emergency to revamp the sector. Members also condemned the public sale of caskets opposite UNIMED Teaching Hospital (Akure Annex), calling for the relocation of the shop to prevent psychological distress for patients and visitors.

Furthermore, the NUJ urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to reactivate the quarterly “Meet the Governor” media chat to improve communication with the public. The union also applauded the recent approval of teacher recruitment for primary and secondary schools in the state, urging that new recruits be posted to rural areas where they are most needed.

The communiqué was drafted by Jacob Akintunde (Correspondents’ Chapel), Olayinka Ogunleye (Digital Media Chapel), and Babatunde Ayedoju (Owena Press Chapel), and was e-signed by the State Secretary, Olaoluwa Meshack.