Churchill Oyowe has retained the chairmanship of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, defeating his challenger, Kenneth Obieh, by 17 votes in Thursday’s election in Asaba.
Oyowe polled 235 votes against Obieh’s 218 at the NUJ Secretariat to secure another term in office.
Following his re-election, Oyowe pledged to unite members, improve their welfare and learn from the challenges of his first three years in office, expressing hope for a better welfare package for journalists in 2027.
“Whatever the outcome of today, it is a divine arrangement. We cannot say anyone is vanquished. We are all victors in this exercise,” he said.
He promised to work as a team, improve relations with members and give everyone a sense of belonging, regardless of whom they supported during the election.
“As the chairman, we pledge to work as a team going forward. We have plans to work for the progress of this council. We are going to take a cue from the challenges we faced in the past three years to better our working relationship,” he added.
Oyowe congratulated the other candidates, including Obieh, and urged members to put the election behind them and work together for the progress of the union.
He also commended Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for his support for the council, particularly the reported donation of a new 2026 Toyota Hiace bus. He said the governor had also supported the council’s regular press briefings, while a promised solar power system was still in progress.
Also speaking, the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, called on members to accept the election outcome and cooperate with the new leadership.
“I am happy that the election has been keenly contested, conducted fairly and won fairly,” Aniagwu said.
He urged members who supported other candidates to respect the majority’s decision and work with Oyowe.
“Whether you supported him or voted for another candidate, he is now your chairman and leader,” the commissioner said.
Aniagwu said the state government would not discriminate against journalists because of the candidates they supported, adding that the government intended to increase its support for the union.
“On behalf of the governor, I want to assure the union that, in the weeks and months ahead, we will provide even greater support than we have given in the past,” he said.
He also said he would lead the newly elected chairman and members of his team to meet Governor Oborevwori.
Earlier, the Vice-President of the NUJ, Zone F, Opaka Bokubo, announced the election results and commended security personnel and other stakeholders for their contributions to the exercise.
“Our security personnel who have been here with us from morning up till this hour, I thank you especially. I appreciate your patience and the work you have put in today. Indeed, we are very grateful,” Bokubo said.
In other results, Felix Ekwu won the secretary position with 237 votes against Pere Botu’s 202. Patrick Ochie emerged vice-chairman with 241 votes, defeating Monday Osayende, who scored 173.
Josephine Omodior won the assistant secretary position with 267 votes against Andy Emephia’s 188.
Bokubo said 581 journalists were registered to vote, while 455 were accredited for the election.
