Ukorebi Esien | June 19, 2026
CALABAR – The South-South Zone of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on governments across the region to remain focused on delivering democratic dividends to citizens and avoid sacrificing governance on the altar of political campaigns and re-election pursuits ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The position formed part of the resolutions reached at the South-South Zonal Executive Council Meeting of the Union held in Calabar, Cross River State, under the leadership of the Zonal Vice President, Comrade Opaka Dokubo.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the union advised political office holders and governments in the region to strike a balance between legitimate political activities and their constitutional responsibilities to the people.
The journalists observed that citizens expect tangible improvements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, stressing that governance should not be overshadowed by political calculations as the country gradually approaches another election cycle.
According to the communiqué, governments across the South-South region should remain committed to implementing policies and programmes that directly impact the welfare of the people while conducting political activities responsibly.
The meeting also reflected on broader issues affecting the South-South region and the country, including the worsening security situation across Nigeria. The union urged state governments to strengthen their security architecture and address emerging threats before they escalate.
The South-South NUJ further advocated intensified community policing, improved profiling of persons entering communities, and stronger collaboration between residents and security agencies as part of efforts to tackle insecurity.
On infrastructure, the union commended the Federal Government for the progress recorded on the Calabar–Itu Highway project and the completion of the Aba–Ikot Ekpene Highway. However, it called for the speedy completion of ongoing road projects across the region to ease transportation challenges and reduce road accidents.
The union also urged the Federal Government to intensify environmental remediation efforts in oil-producing communities and undertake comprehensive environmental impact assessments to address the long-term consequences of oil exploration and production activities in the Niger Delta.
Reaffirming its commitment to good governance and sustainable development, the South-South NUJ pledged to continue advocating policies that promote security, infrastructural development, environmental sustainability, and the welfare of citizens across the region.
The meeting was attended by leaders of NUJ state councils across the South-South zone and concluded with a call on journalists to uphold the ethics of the profession and ensure responsible reporting during the electioneering period leading to the 2027 general elections.
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