NUJ Abia State Council Slams Umuahia North Mayor Over Abuse Of Journalists, Announces Boycott Of His Council Activities

 The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, has issued a stern communiqué at the end of its monthly congress, expressing deep outrage over the abusive conduct of the Mayor of Umuahia North Local Government Area, Hon. Smart Iheoma, who was reported to have verbally assaulted journalists during the May 31, 2025, environmental sanitation exercise.

The Congress, which was presided over by the State Council Chairman, Comrade Chidi Asonye, and held at the NUJ Press Centre, Umuahia, condemned the Mayor’s derogatory remarks, where he allegedly referred to journalists as “imbeciles” and “criminals,” and threatened to bar them from covering state functions.

Describing Iheoma’s actions as “unbecoming of a public office holder,” the NUJ Congress resolved to boycott all activities involving the Umuahia North Council Chairman and his local government.

Members were unequivocally barred from reporting on him or his administration across all media platforms.

Furthermore, the Council issued a strict warning that any registered journalist or media outfit that violates this resolution will face severe sanctions.

Despite reaffirming its cordial relationship with the Abia State Government, the NUJ stressed that it will not tolerate any form of insult or intimidation targeted at journalists carrying out their lawful duty of informing, educating, and entertaining the public.

On matters of state security, the Union raised concerns over the resurgence of criminal activity in Isuikwuato and Umunneochi LGAs, urging the Operation Crush security outfit to intensify its crackdown on banditry and kidnapping. The Congress commended the efforts of the Abia State Government in establishing Operation Crush and acknowledged the relative peace it brought to the troubled areas.

In addition, the NUJ urged traditional rulers, village heads, and town union presidents-general to bolster security in their communities by establishing vigilantee groups and taking ownership of local safety.

Turning to agricultural and civil service matters, the Union called on the government to **begin strict enforcement of the anti-grazing law**, citing the uncontrolled movement of cattle through towns and farmlands, causing destruction and unrest.

The Congress also appealed to the state government to fast-track the conclusion of the 2022 and 2023 civil service promotion exercises, stressing that the prolonged delay is demoralizing for deserving workers yet to enjoy their promotions and accompanying benefits.

The NUJ Abia State Council reaffirmed its commitment to press freedom, professionalism, and the collective welfare of journalists in the state.

The communiqué was drafted and endorsed by a committee comprising Michael Imeremba

(Unity Federated Chapel),

Chioma Rich-Ufomadu (BCA Chapel), and

Mirth Ekejiuba (State Information), and was officially signed by Comrade Iyke Onuegbu (Secretary) and Comrade Chidi Asonye (Chairman).