Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged re-elected Nigeria Union of Journalists chairman, Churchill Oyowe, to unite journalists across the state after securing a fresh mandate with 235 votes in Thursday’s election.
Oyowe defeated his challenger, Kenneth Obieh, who scored 218 votes, winning the chairmanship by a margin of 17 votes.
Oborevwori, in a statement issued in Asaba on Friday by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, described the election as free, fair and credible, saying the close result reflected the competitive nature of the contest.
The governor urged Oyowe to reach out to members who voted against him and work towards a united union, stressing that his mandate required him to lead all journalists, regardless of their choices during the election.
“Lead everybody, not just those who voted for you. The election is over. Now is time for unity. Bring everybody together. I urge you to extend a hand of fellowship to your opponent. Delta NUJ must remain united under your leadership,” Oborevwori said.
He congratulated Oyowe and members of the newly elected State Working Committee, describing the chairman’s re-election as a vote of confidence in his leadership, integrity and capacity to lead the union.
The governor expressed confidence in Oyowe’s ability to provide purposeful leadership and promote professionalism in journalism.
In other results, Patrick Ochei won the vice-chairmanship with 241 votes, defeating Monday Osayende, who scored 173 votes.
Felix Ekwu emerged state secretary with 237 votes, defeating Pere Botu, who polled 202 votes, while Josephine Omodior won the assistant secretary position with 267 votes against Andy Emephia’s 188.
Caroline Ubini, Toju Oteri and Michael Ilaya were returned unopposed as treasurer, financial secretary and auditor, respectively.
Oborevwori congratulated all the successful candidates and urged them to work together for the progress of the union.
