The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State Council, has condemned the rising cases of public harassment, illegal levies, and exploitative utility billing in the state and called on government at all levels to act swiftly.
The strong-worded communique emerged from an emergency congress of the Union held at the Dr. Sam Egwu Press Centre, Abakaliki and presided over by the State Chairman, Comrade Samson Nwafor.
The meeting, which drew wide attendance from chapel representatives, addressed both internal union matters and broader societal issues.
Top on the list of public concerns was the condemnation of aggressive tactics employed by the state’s traffic enforcement taskforce.
According to the NUJ, the activities of the taskforce have resulted in road accidents and loss of lives in the state.
The Union urged the state government to either retrain or disband the unit to prevent further tragedies.
Similarly, the congress expressed deep worry over the conduct of revenue agents and taskforce members accused of harassing residents and businesses under unclear mandates.
The NUJ called on the state government to harmonize revenue operations and weed out impostors who are tarnishing the administration’s image.
In another sweeping resolution, the NUJ condemned what it described as “outrageous” electricity bills imposed on Ebonyi residents by the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), particularly those using postpaid meters.
The Union urged the state government to establish its own Electricity Regulatory Commission to monitor EEDC’s activities and protect citizens from exploitation.
The congress also highlighted alleged extortion of landlords in Ebonyi communities, where host community leaders reportedly impose multiple illegal levies on landowners.
The NUJ appealed to Governor Francis Nwifuru to intervene and halt the abuse in the state.
While criticizing certain actions, the congress commended the state government for notable efforts, including the ongoing repair of damaged water pipes, traffic decongestion via the reopening of Udensi Roundabout, and the recent executive bill to regulate house rent.
The body urged the State Assembly to expedite the passage of the rent control bill.
Safety at major construction sites also came under focus, particularly at Vanco Junction, where the NUJ advised total closure of the area to prevent accidents as heavy machinery continues work.
Internally, the congress ratified the enforcement of check-off dues among members and directed chapels with expired leaderships to initiate fresh elections.
It reiterated that only journalists registered through recognized chapels would be considered bona fide members of the Union.
The congress commended Mr. Nkemkanma Kama, Member representing OHANIVO Federal Constituency, for fulfilling his promise of installing a borehole at the NUJ Press Centre and described the gesture as timely and thoughtful.
Also, the Union congratulated Governor Nwifuru and lawmakers from Ebonyi State on their two years in office; urging deeper legislative engagement to tackle rising poverty.
It called for inclusive skill acquisition and empowerment programs insulated from hijack by racketeers.
The congress charged all levels of government to act urgently on pressing social and economic issues threatening the wellbeing of residents.
