Elizabeth Vincent, Yenagoa
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council, has elected a new set of executive members to lead the union for the next three years,the election took place during the triennial delegates conference held in Yenagoa on Saturday, November 16, 2024.
The election process was overseen by a five-member Electoral Committee, with supervision from the Zone F Vice President, Mpaka Dokubo, Zone F Secretary, John Angese, and Simon Barnabas, the Bayelsa State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Tonye Yemoleigha was elected Chairman with 213 votes, defeating his opponent and the immediate past Secretary, Ogio Ipigansi, who secured 206 votes. Inebaraton Preye was elected Vice Chairman with 238 votes, while Ebiowei Lawal garnered 181 votes.
Other newly elected members of the executive are Stanley Imgbi ,secretary,Aqua Akpuruku ,assistant secretary,Tekninyo Theophilus treasurer
Theophilus Agidee – financial secretary
Grace Iwolo ,auditor
After a closely contested election, Mpaka Dokubo, the Zone F Vice President, declared Tonye Yemoleigha the winner, stating, “Having satisfied all necessary requirements, Tonye Yemoleigha is hereby declared the winner and is thereby elected.”
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected Chairman, Tonye Yemoleigha, thanked the delegates for their trust and assured them that the new leadership would not disappoint. He expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve, saying, “On behalf of my fellow executive members, I want to express our profound gratitude to everyone here today for your conduct and support throughout this process. Despite any challenges we faced, we have arrived at this moment together.”
Yemoleigha continued, “During our campaign, we shared our vision, and we are committed to delivering on that promise. But before anything, I want to thank Almighty God for His guidance. This responsibility is one we have accepted with humility, and we will not fail you. The journey ahead may be difficult, but with your cooperation and steadfast support, we will serve you with dedication and integrity.”