ASABA/Nigeria: The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Pointer Chapel, has passed a vote of confidence in Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and the leadership of the Delta Printing and Publishing Corporation (DPPC), publishers of The Pointer newspaper.
In a communiqué issued at the end of an emergency meeting held on July 14, 2025, and jointly signed by the Chapel Chairman and Secretary, Comrade Godwin Nzemeka and Comrade Patrick Mgbodo, respectively, the union strongly refuted claims of a crisis in the DPPC, describing them as baseless and malicious.
The NUJ, in the statement, also extended the vote of confidence to the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu; the functioning Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Mr. Harold Ojji; the DPPC Board Chairman, Pastor Austine Igbine; members of the DPPC Board; and the General Manager of The Pointer, Mrs. Rosemary Nwaebuni.
According to the communique, recent social media publications alleging breakdown of law and order and politically motivated appointments at the DPPC were “outright falsehoods concocted by faceless individuals” attempting to undermine the Governor’s authority in managing state-owned institutions.
“The claim that there is a breakdown of law and order at The Pointer is entirely false. The work environment remains peaceful, with staff members diligently carrying out their duties without interference or disruption,” the union stated.
The statement defended the appointment of Mrs. Nwaebuni as General Manager, noting that it was constitutionally within the prerogative of the State Governor. It described her appointment as meritorious, based on proven competence and experience.
“The allegation of ‘professionally unqualified leadership’ is blatantly false,” the NUJ emphasized. “Mrs. Nwaebuni is the first General Manager since the late Dr. Elo Ekeli to hold a degree in Mass Communication. With over two decades of professional journalism experience, including roles as Title Editor and Political Editor, her credentials are unquestionable.”
The union further accused those behind the publication of harboring selfish motives, noting that some of them had a track record of absenteeism and dereliction of duty. It called for a thorough investigation into their activities.
“Those behind the defamatory and malicious campaign intended to disrupt the positive working environment in the DPPC should be investigated. Their criticism lacks merit and is not rooted in professional integrity,” the union declared.
Describing Mrs. Nwaebuni’s leadership as marked by professionalism, innovation, and administrative stability, the union commended her efforts in consolidating the gains of previous administrations at the Corporation.
The union also lauded the immediate past Chairman of the DPPC Board, Olorogun (Dr.) Ebenezer Okorodudu, for his contributions to the growth and sustainability of the state’s flagship media establishment.
In conclusion, the NUJ, Pointer Chapel, urged the public, professional bodies, and stakeholders to disregard the publication alleging a crisis, stating that it “lacks evidence and was clearly intended to sow discord.”
The union reaffirmed its commitment to journalistic integrity, truth, and the preservation of ethical standards in media practice in Delta State.
