Imo NUJ Disowns AIBJ, Warns Members Against Association

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Imo State Council, has disowned the Association of Imo State-Based Journalists (AIBJ), declaring that the group is neither recognised, registered nor affiliated with the Union.

The Council also directed all registered and practising NUJ members in Imo State to steer clear of the activities of the group, warning that members who flout the directive could face disciplinary action.

NUJ Imo State Council Chairman, Comrade Ifeanyi Nwanguma, JP, made the position known in a press release, following what the Council described as the activities of persons parading themselves as members or representatives of AIBJ.

Nwanguma said the disclaimer became necessary to clarify the status of the group and protect members of the public from representations suggesting any relationship between AIBJ and the NUJ.

“For the avoidance of doubt, recognised affiliates and professional bodies within the NUJ structure include the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE), and Correspondents’ Chapel, among others recognised in accordance with the Union’s established structure,” the statement said.

The Council consequently warned members of the public to exercise caution in their dealings with the group, stressing that the NUJ would not accept responsibility for transactions or other consequences arising from such dealings.

It stated that the Council “shall not be held responsible for any transaction, representation, financial dealings, loss or other consequences arising from dealings with the said group or persons purporting to represent it.”

Turning its attention to NUJ members, the Council issued a firm directive against participation in the activities of AIBJ.

“Furthermore, all registered and practising members of the NUJ, Imo State Council, are hereby directed to disassociate themselves from the activities of the said group. Any member found to be acting in violation of this directive may face appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with the Constitution and regulations of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.”

The Council further urged members of the public to disregard any claim by AIBJ or its representatives suggesting that the group is recognised by or affiliated with the NUJ, Imo State Council.

It maintained that the press release serves as a formal disclaimer to the general public and a caveat to all members of the NUJ in Imo State.