By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, has expressed strong disapproval over the open display and sale of coffins within the premises of the UNIMED Teaching Hospital (Akure Annex).
The union described the situation, where caskets are sold directly opposite the Out-Patient Department (OPD) and close to the Emergency Unit, as insensitive and psychologically distressing for patients and their families.
In a communique issued at the end of its monthly congress on March 27, 2025, the NUJ called on the state government to immediately relocate the private operator running the casket shop to a more appropriate location.
Security concerns were also high on the agenda, with the union commending Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his swift response to recent security challenges.
The establishment of a Joint Task Force on Security was noted as a positive step, but the NUJ urged the government to provide security agencies with essential tools such as vehicles, drones, and tracking devices to enhance their effectiveness.
The congress further advocated for the recruitment of more officers and increased support for the state’s security network, Amotekun Corps, to tackle rising criminal activities.
In addition to security, the union raised alarm over the deteriorating healthcare system in the state, noting the difficulties patients face in accessing quality and affordable medical services.
The NUJ called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to declare a state of emergency in the health sector to address these pressing concerns.
The congress also turned its attention to workers’ welfare, particularly the implementation of the new N70,000 minimum wage for federal employees.
It urged the Federal Government to address irregularities affecting journalists and other workers in government-owned media organisations such as the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), and Voice of Nigeria (VON).
On governance and transparency, the NUJ encouraged the governor to revive the quarterly “Meet the Governor” media chat.
This initiative, they argued, would allow the public to stay informed about government policies and programmes, fostering better communication between the administration and the people.
Meanwhile, the union commended the state government for approving the recruitment of teachers for primary and secondary schools.
However, it urged authorities to ensure that new teachers are posted to rural areas where the need for quality education is most critical.
The congress, which was the last under the current NUJ state leadership, was presided over by the Chairman, Prince Leke Adegbite, who expressed gratitude to union members for their support over the past three years.
He praised the state executive committee for their teamwork, which he credited for the council’s achievements.
The communique was drafted by Jacob Akintunde (Correspondents’ Chapel), Olayinka Ogunleye (Digital Media Chapel), and Babatunde Ayedoju (Owena Press Chapel) and officially signed by State the Secretary, Olaoluwa Meshack.
