Quick Summary:
Abia journalists call for control of cattle movement in Umuahia, commend payment of workers’ allowances, and urge voter registration drive.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, has called on relevant government authorities to check the continuous movement of cattle within and around Umuahia, the state capital.
The union made the appeal during its monthly congress held at the NUJ State Secretariat, Umuahia, expressing concern that animal dung was defacing parts of the city and posing environmental challenges.
Commends Payment of Leave Allowances
In a communiqué signed by Abia NUJ Chairman, Chidi Asonye, and Secretary, Ikechukwu Onuegbu, the council commended the Abia State Government for commencing the payment of arrears of Leave Allowances to civil servants.
The union said the gesture would boost workers’ morale and encourage them to discharge their duties more effectively.
Reminder to Governor Otti on Outstanding Entitlements
The NUJ also reminded Governor Alex Otti to fulfill his 2025 promise to pay the outstanding entitlements of the next-of-kin of deceased Abia workers, stressing the need for the government to uphold its commitments to all categories of workers.
Journalists Urged to Uphold Accountability
The council urged journalists in the state to avoid praise-singing of public officials and instead hold them accountable, in line with the constitutional role of the press as the watchdog of society.
Concern Over Low Voter Registration
The NUJ expressed worry over the low number of registered voters in Abia State as released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
It called on government officials, religious leaders, and community heads to mobilize eligible citizens to register ahead of future elections to ensure greater voter participation.