NUJ Commends Gov Adeleke Over UNIOSUNTH Workers’ Regularisation, urges Fulfilment Of OSBC Directive

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, has commended the Governor of the State, Ademola Adeleke, for approving permanent appointments for casual workers of the Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, describing the decision as a humane and commendable step toward improving workers’ welfare in the state.

The Council, in a statement issued by the Chairman, Comrade Adeyemi Aboderin and Secretary, Comrade Olalekan Akindoju, praised the governor for demonstrating sensitivity to the plight of workers who had dedicated several years of service to the state despite operating under uncertain and unfavourable employment conditions.

While applauding him for the development, the NUJ, however, urged Governor Adeleke to extend the same compassion and sense of justice to the 66 freelance staff members of the Osun State Broadcasting Corporation who are yet to be absorbed as full-time workers despite an earlier directive made by the Governor.

The Council recalled that on Thursday, May 23, 2024, Governor Adeleke publicly pronounced and approved full-time employment for the affected OSBC freelance staff who had for years worked under conditions described as casual engagement within the state-owned broadcasting establishment.

The NUJ expressed concern that nearly two years after the announcement, the directive is yet to be implemented, leaving the affected media workers in prolonged uncertainty despite their continued contributions to the broadcasting sector in the state.

The Union maintained that journalists and media workers deserve fair treatment and decent working conditions, especially considering the critical role the media plays in sustaining democracy, public accountability, and civic engagement.

The NUJ therefore appealed to Governor Adeleke to urgently fulfil his promise by ensuring the immediate absorption of the 66 freelance workers of OSBC into the state civil service as full-time staff.

The Council stressed that implementing the promise would further reinforce the governor’s image as a worker-friendly administrator who is committed to fairness, equity, and the welfare of citizens serving the state in different capacities.

The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of journalists’ welfare and the advancement of professional standards within the media industry, while expressing optimism that Governor Adeleke would act swiftly on the matter in the interest of justice and fairness.