Author: Amieyeofori Ibim, Managing Editor

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, has expressed deep concern over rising political tension, insecurity, environmental challenges and the deteriorating state of public infrastructure in Rivers State, calling on political leaders to place the interest of the people above personal and sectional considerations.

The union made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of its Monthly Congress held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre, Port Harcourt. The congress deliberated extensively on issues affecting the journalism profession, governance and the socio-economic wellbeing of the state.

The congress congratulated the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on his 51st birthday, describing the milestone as auspicious and offering prayers for good health, prosperity and continued service to the people of the state.

On the lingering political crisis in the state, the NUJ expressed serious concern over the unresolved rift between the executive arm of government and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The union warned that the continued impasse poses a grave threat to governance stability, socio-economic development and the future wellbeing of Rivers people. It urged all parties involved to embrace dialogue, restraint and constitutional processes in resolving their differences.

Despite the political challenges, the congress commended Governor Fubara for notable achievements recorded by his administration. These include ongoing road construction and rehabilitation across the state, the approval for the employment of 5,000 teachers, the renovation of the State Secretariat Complex and the payment of Christmas bonuses to workers. The union described the initiatives as a demonstration of commitment to infrastructure development, human capital growth and workers’ welfare.

The NUJ stressed that education remains the foundation of sustainable development and called for an urgent overhaul of public secondary schools across the state, many of which it said are in a deplorable condition. It singled out Government Secondary School, Omerelu in Ikwerre Local Government Area; Community Secondary School, Rumuokwurusi; several government schools in Etche; and Government Secondary School, Luawii, as requiring immediate attention.

The congress also urged the state government to prioritize the construction of perimeter fencing around public schools, particularly technical and vocational institutions such as the Government Craft Centre, to prevent encroachment, protect government assets and ensure the safety of students and staff.

On press freedom, the union condemned the increasing cases of harassment, intimidation and attacks on journalists by security operatives, including the police. It stressed that journalists are not participants in political disputes but professionals constitutionally mandated to inform the public. The NUJ demanded an immediate end to all forms of aggression against media practitioners and called on security agencies to respect press freedom and the rule of law.

Addressing environmental concerns, the congress called for the declaration of a state of emergency on flooding, following the recurring devastation in several parts of the state, particularly the Mile 1 to Mile 3 axis of Port Harcourt. It urged the government to adopt proactive measures such as improved drainage systems, enhanced environmental sanitation, public sensitization and coordinated disaster response mechanisms.

The union further expressed alarm over the resurgence of insecurity in parts of the state, especially around strategic areas including the Mile 1 Flyover, Ada George, Aba Road and adjoining locations. It called on security agencies to intensify intelligence-led operations, ensure visible policing and work closely with community stakeholders to restore public confidence and safety.

The NUJ reiterated that Rivers State deserves peace, stability and purposeful leadership. It urged all political actors to conduct themselves with maturity and a sense of responsibility, emphasizing that governance is a sacred trust held on behalf of the people.

The Rivers State Council of the NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, the defence of press freedom and the promotion of good governance, peace and sustainable development in the state.

The communiqué was signed by the Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee, Barr. King Onunwor; Secretary, Prudence O. Wokoma; Member, Martins Giadom; and the Secretary of the NUJ Rivers State Council, Dr. Ijeoma Tubosia.