The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Delta State Council has sounded the alarm on the deepening hunger crisis, insecurity, and economic hardship plaguing the state, calling for urgent government intervention before the situation spirals out of control.
During its congress at the NUJ Press Centre in Asaba, the Union demanded decisive action to tackle rising food prices, crippling transportation costs, escalating farmer-herder clashes, and a surge in kidnappings. Presiding over the session, NUJ Chairman Comrade Churchill Oyowe acknowledged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s efforts in infrastructure and civil service reforms but stressed that more must be done to ease the suffering of citizens.
The NUJ described Nigeria’s economic state as dire, warning that inflation and the high cost of living had driven many families to the brink of starvation. In a strongly worded communiqué, the Union urged the federal, state, and local governments to declare a state of emergency on hunger, emphasizing that despite Nigeria’s vast resources, millions are struggling to afford even basic meals.
Amid growing concerns over food security, the Union called for immediate government incentives and protection for farmers, ensuring they have safe access to farmlands and can boost food production without fear of attacks.
Security concerns topped the agenda, with the NUJ raising the alarm over increasing kidnappings and violent crimes in Delta State. The congress urged the state government and security agencies to step up efforts in protecting lives and property, highlighting Uwheru, Ughelli North, and other communities as major flashpoints for farmer-herder clashes.
The Union called for the full implementation of the state’s anti-grazing law, stressing the need for traditional rulers, community leaders, and security agencies to work together to stop the relentless attacks on farmers.
The NUJ expressed deep frustration over the soaring cost of transportation, noting that fares remain high despite a decline in fuel prices. The Union blamed this transportation crisis for worsening inflation across goods and services.
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To address this, the congress urged the state government to engage with transport unions, including NURTW, RTEAN, and COMTOA, to regulate fares and ease the burden on commuters.
With rents skyrocketing across Delta State, the NUJ condemned the exploitation by landlords and real estate agents, calling for government intervention to regulate rent prices and introduce policies that protect tenants.
The congress also advocated for the construction of low-cost housing, ensuring that low-income earners and struggling families have access to affordable shelter.
The NUJ reaffirmed its support for the Delta State Power Reform Bill, urging Governor Oborevwori to sign it into law, citing its potential to revolutionize the state’s electricity sector.
The Union also commended the ongoing resettlement efforts for displaced Okuama community residents but called on the military to either release detained individuals or formally charge them in court, ensuring adherence to the rule of law.
In a final resolution, the NUJ urged Governor Oborevwori to engage more with the press, using media platforms to communicate his administration’s achievements and address pressing public concerns.
With Delta State grappling with mounting economic and security challenges, the NUJ’s bold stance sends a clear message to the government: act now or risk an even deeper crisis.
