Olarewaju Inaugurates Ogun-East NUJ Independent Chapel; Induct Dr. Laraba Shoda as Matron; Decries Media Unprofessional-ism.

Comrade Akindele robes Dr. Laraba 

Comrade Akinwale Olarewaju, Ogun State NUJ chairman on Tuesday 17^th December inaugurated Ogun-East NUJ Independent Chapel, inducted Dr, Gloria Laraba Shoda as the chapel’s first matron in Ijebuode.

Comrade, expressed concerns about the growing trend of unprofessional-ism in the Nigerian media. He attributed this to the increasing number of unqualified individuals, often referred to as “Media Aids,” employed by politicians to promote their interests on social media.

According to him, the rate at which politicians employ unqualified personnel called Media Aids to propagate their selfish interests on social media has become quite alarming, shameful and destructive to media profession.

Akinwale emphasized the need for journalists to adhere to the ethics of the profession, maintaining the highest standards of integrity and objectivity. He cited the lecture delivered by Prof. Obatunde Bright Adetola of the Department of Sociology, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, which highlighted the importance of character in sustainable entrepreneurial journalism.

Akinwale announced that he would not inaugurate the executive members selected for the chapel, citing the need for screening and credentials, stating that the minimum qualification for any journalist to be a member of the union at any level is BSC and HND. Instead, he appointed six electoral members to conduct the chapel’s election and elect qualified executive members within three weeks.

The induction of Dr. Gloria Laraba Shoda as the chapel’s matron was a significant milestone in the history of the chapel. In her address, Dr. Shoda emphasized the importance of truth. She said, “Lies are clothed in many robes, but the truth worketh naked.” She admonished journalists to always stick to the truth.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including: Area Commander Ijebu-Ode Division 1, Edward Adeniji Omosanyin, Zonal Commander Ogun East Division of Police, Engineer Wale Ogundele, Area Commander Ijebu Awa, ECC. Afolabi, APC Spokesman Ogun East Senatorial District, Toluwalope Opeyemi, members from state council and all members of the new chapel.