The National Industrial Court, Abuja Division, has set December 13, 2024, for its ruling on an application seeking to halt the upcoming National Elections of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
The NUJ is scheduled to hold its 8th Triennial Delegates Conference on November 27, 2024, in Owerri, Imo State. However, a legal challenge was initiated by one Abdulwaheed Adubi, who claimed that the tenure of the union’s current leadership expired on October 6, 2024, and sought an injunction to prevent the election.
At the resumed hearing on Wednesday, Justice Olufunke Anuwe declined to issue an interim injunction to stop the election, stating, “This matter is adjourned to December 13, 2024, for ruling on the application for injunction.” Efforts by the claimant to secure a court order to halt the process were unsuccessful.
Legal Arguments
Defendants’ Counsel:
Patrick Ediale, counsel for the NUJ, argued that the body sought to be restrained in the lawsuit—the National Executive Committee does not exist under the union’s constitution. Instead, he clarified that the recognized organ is the National Executive Council.
Ediale further noted that other entities named in the case, such as the Central Working Committee and Credential Committee, are legitimate constitutional bodies of the NUJ but were not listed as parties in the suit. He maintained that the court could not issue an injunction against entities not before it.
He also challenged the claimant’s membership status, alleging that Adubi, who claims affiliation with *Money Central Newspapers*, is not a valid member of the NUJ. Ediale argued that the publication lacks an International Standard Serial Number (ISSN), rendering it non-existent.
“There is more justice in refusing this application,” Ediale contended, adding that the claimant failed to exhaust internal dispute resolution mechanisms outlined in the NUJ constitution.
Claimant’s Counsel:
Barrister Sarafa Yusuff, representing Adubi, urged the court to grant a temporary injunction to stop the election pending a final ruling, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
NUJ President’s Reaction
In response to the proceedings, NUJ President Chris Isiguzo commended the court for resisting pressures to issue an interim injunction. He reassured union members that the election will proceed as planned on November 27.
“Let nobody be deceived by fake news circulating on social media claiming the election has been postponed. That is entirely false. Preparations are in top gear to ensure a smooth and successful delegates’ conference in Owerri,” Isiguzo stated.
He urged delegates to ignore misleading information and prepare for the event, emphasizing that the union remains committed to transparency and due process in its leadership transition.
The NUJ leadership has assured members of a seamless and credible election process, despite ongoing legal challenges.
