NUJ Ogun Condemns Harassment, Intimidation of Journalist by Governor’s Aide, Bans Him from Press Centre

By Ademola Adeleke

Abeokuta – The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, has strongly condemned the alleged harassment, intimidation, and defamation of a journalist, Comrade Olajide Osoba, by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Students Affairs, Mr. Azeez Adeyemi, and his associates.

In an emergency State Executive Committee (SEC) meeting, the NUJ described Adeyemi’s actions as “deplorable, unjustifiable, and condemnable,” accusing him of orchestrating threats, character assassination, and physical assault against Osoba.

The union revealed that the ordeal began during the May 1, 2025, Workers’ Day celebration, where Osoba, a bona fide NUJ member, was allegedly attacked and severely beaten on Adeyemi’s orders while leaving the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.

Following the incident, Osoba reported the case at the Ibara Divisional Police Station. However, instead of seeking justice, Adeyemi allegedly filed two “frivolous petitions” accusing Osoba of being a member of a “dreaded cult group” and using his political office to pressure the police to arrest the journalist.

Last week, police officers from the Ogun State Police Command, Eleweran, and the AIG Zone 2 Office, Lagos, reportedly laid siege at the Iwe Iroyin Press Centre, Abeokuta, attempting to arrest Osoba without prior invitation.

The NUJ described Adeyemi’s actions as “utterly uncivilized” and warned that such behaviour undermines press freedom and democracy.

1. Ban on Adeyemi & Associates**: The NUJ declared Adeyemi and his faction of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) persona non grata within and around the Iwe Iroyin Press Centre, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta.
2. Stop Harassment: The union demanded an immediate end to police and thug intimidation of journalists, calling for a proper investigation into the May Day attack.
3. Press Freedom: The NUJ vowed not to tolerate any attempt to gag journalists in Ogun State, affirming that the press centre remains a safe space for professional journalism.
4. Call to Government: The union urged the Ogun State Government to call Adeyemi to order and ensure the safety of journalists.
5. Protect Government’s Image: The NUJ noted its cordial relationship with Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration and warned against allowing an “overzealous aide” to tarnish the government’s image.

The statement was jointly signed by:
Comrade Wale Olanrewaju (Chairman, NUJ Ogun Council)
Comrade Bunmi Adigun (Secretary, NUJ Ogun Council).

The NUJ reiterated its commitment to defending journalists’ rights and maintaining media freedom in Ogun State.

Efforts to reach Mr. Azeez Adeyemi for comments were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report. The Ogun State Government is yet to officially respond to the allegations.