As the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) gears up for its 8th Triennial Delegate Conference and National Election, scheduled for November 2024 in Owerri, Imo State, concerns are mounting over potential electoral manipulation under the leadership of NUJ President, Chief Chris Isiguzo. Allegations of misconduct in the July 2024 Kwara State NUJ election have cast a shadow over the forthcoming National contest, with many union members fearing that Isiguzo may repeat the alleged irregularities on a larger scale.
Chris Isiguzo, who has held the position of NUJ President since 2018, is at the centre of accusations involving vote manipulation, suppression of dissent, and handpicking candidates loyal to his agenda. His critics argue that under his leadership, the NUJ’s democratic processes have been subverted to ensure the success of candidates favoured by him, particularly in State Councils like Kwara. The Kwara State NUJ election on July 31, 2023, has been the subject of widespread controversy.
The election remains a hotbed of contention, marked by allegations of irregularities and fraud under Isiguzo’s supervision. The election, which has since been contested in court, saw accusations of manipulation in favour of candidates perceived to be loyal to Isiguzo. Journalists and union members in Kwara alleged that the process was skewed to favour these “anointed” candidates, raising concerns about the integrity of the NUJ’s electoral processes.
The court case challenging the election results is still pending, and many are awaiting the final judgment to determine the legality of the process. For some, the outcome of this case will serve as a litmus test for the transparency of the union’s democratic processes.
However, with Isiguzo’s National influence and apparent control over state elections, concerns are growing that this alleged manipulation may set a dangerous precedent for the upcoming National election.
Journalists who have voiced their concerns about the Kwara NUJ election have faced intimidation and marginalization from the embattled Council Chairman, Abdullateef ‘Lanre Ahmed, with some even alleging that the leadership of the NUJ has resorted to strong-arm tactics to silence dissent.
The fear is that this will not only undermine the credibility of the union but also pave the way for Isiguzo to tighten his grip on power through proxies, ensuring his influence even after his tenure.
The upcoming National election in Owerri is more than just a leadership contest—it is a battle for the future of the NUJ. If Isiguzo’s favoured candidates emerge victorious in Owerri, many fear that the alleged manipulation seen in Kwara last election will be replicated to other Councils and on National scale. Such a scenario would erode confidence in the union’s ability to hold free and fair elections, further entrenching the dominance of a select few over the general membership.
Journalists and union members are increasingly concerned that a victory for Isiguzo’s candidates will not only perpetuate the manipulation of the union but also hinder any meaningful reform.
With the court case regarding the Kwara election still pending, a clear verdict against the alleged irregularities could serve as a warning for future elections, but there is skepticism about whether the National leadership will heed this.
As the NUJ approaches its National election, there is a growing demand for transparency and accountability. Many journalists are calling for an election process that is free from manipulation, one that reflects the true will of the members.
There are growing calls for independent monitoring of the election to ensure that the controversies of Kwara do not extend to Owerri. The election is a defining moment for the NUJ. If the union is to maintain its integrity, it must address the allegations of election fraud and manipulation that have tainted its image.
Failure to do so would not only damage the credibility of Isiguzo’s leadership but also weaken the union’s ability to advocate for press freedom, professional standards, and the welfare of its members.
The NUJ National election in Owerri is poised to be an important moment in the union’s history. With the shadows of the Kwara NUJ election still looming, the integrity of the National electoral process is on the line. Allegations of fraud and the imposition of “anointed candidates” have raised serious concerns about the future of the union under Isiguzo’s leadership.
If the same manipulations witnessed in Kwara are allowed to play out on the National stage, the NUJ risks losing the trust of its members and the broader public.
The upcoming court ruling on the Kwara election will be crucial in setting a legal and moral precedent for the National vote. However, unless Isiguzo’s leadership allows for true democratic processes, the union may continue to be marred by allegations of corruption and manipulation.
For now, all eyes are on Owerri. The outcome of the election will not only determine the next phase of leadership for the NUJ but also signal whether the union is committed to upholding the democratic principles it claims to represent.
The NUJ must rise to this challenge, ensuring that the voice of every journalist is heard, free from the specter of manipulation and fraud.
