Dr. Festus Alenkhe’s Journey: A Call for Genuine Support
Mariam Ogeyemhe Treasurer, EBS chapel reporting
Dr. Festus Alenkhe’s tenure as the Chairman of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has been marked by significant accomplishments and commendable reforms. From modernizing the council’s operations to creating new opportunities for journalists in the state, Alenkhe’s first term reflects a profound commitment to professional excellence and the welfare of his colleagues. As he steps forward to contest for a second term, it becomes essential for friends, allies, and indeed all NUJ members to reflect on his accomplishments and the unity of purpose that has driven progress thus far.
Under Alenkhe’s leadership, the NUJ in Edo State has seen achievements that speak for themselves. Yet, intriguingly, some who identify as his friends—and who have even acknowledged his successes have now aligned themselves with forces openly opposed to his re-election. These alliances raise questions, not only about loyalty, but also about the true intentions behind supporting the council’s leadership. While a contest of ideas is natural in any political endeavour, those who profess friendship would do well to value continuity and the constructive gains already achieved.
It is particularly worrying when those who claim to support Alenkhe choose instead to align with individuals backed by people actively working to undermine his leadership. If you say you support Alenkhe, yet stand behind a candidate whose allies have openly plotted against him, then your loyalty is in question. Such actions reveal, not genuine support, but a pretense; one that undermines the integrity of your words and intentions. True supporters of Alenkhe should reject these alliances and instead rally behind those who have consistently shown authentic commitment to his vision.
For friends of Alenkhe who genuinely believe in his vision and efforts, this is a time for a united front, not divided loyalties. The stakes go beyond individual ambitions or rivalries; they pertain to the future of journalism in Edo State and the well-being of all its practitioners. If support for Alenkhe’s achievements is sincere, it should manifest in unwavering backing for his second-term bid. Friends and allies, therefore, should take a moment to reconsider their stance, reflecting on how their support could propel the NUJ’s continued growth and benefit the profession at large.
As Alenkhe looks ahead, the journey is not just about re-election. It is about building on a strong foundation and ensuring that the strides already taken are not jeopardized by internal rifts or the absence of unity among those who have historically stood by him. His accomplishments warrant a fair assessment from all stakeholders and, ideally, wholehearted support from those who have benefited from his leadership.
*In this pivotal moment, standing with Dr. Alenkhe is not merely an endorsement of his candidacy, it is a commitment to the future of journalism in Edo State.
