…elections must proceed, National Vice President, Financial Secretary insist
The National Industrial Court has ordered the suspension of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) election (Kwara State Council) scheduled for today, following a petition alleging manipulation of eligible voters’ names.
Fadeyi Babajide and Saka Laaro, the claimants, accused the immediate past chairman, Abdulateef Ahmed, and the credentials Committee chairman, Badamosi Abdul-Hameed Alaiye, of tampering with the voters’ list.
The court also ordered the appearance of other officials, including the National President, Chris Isiguzo, and the Secretary, Achike Chude.
The claimants sought a restraining order on the election officials, citing fraud and malpractices in the preparation of the election. They also requested the setting aside of the poll pending the court’s determination.
A similar case in 2022 involving the NUJ Benue State Council elections was cited, where the court ruled that the National President and executive had no powers to clear or disqualify candidates.
Drama ensued at the Union gate as a bailiff was denied access to serve the process, and an electoral official was bullied for collecting the summons. The acting Chairman of the Sobi FM chapel was also ordered to delete any video evidence of the assault.
However, despite being served with court papers, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) election has commenced, in clear disregard of the legal injunction.
Sources revealed that the National Financial Secretary and Vice President of the union insisted that the election must proceed, flouting the court’s order to halt the process.
This development has sparked controversy and raised questions about the union’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting the judicial process.
The election’s continuation despite the court’s restraining order may lead to legal consequences and further complicate the already contentious process.