The Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Alhaji Taofeek Akeugbagold to refund the sum of ₦11 million allegedly belonging to the union’s estate funds or face legal action.
The decision was part of key resolutions reached at the maiden congress of the newly elected NUJ Oyo State leadership, held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Dapo Aderogba Hall, NUJ Press Centre, Ibadan. The congress was chaired by the Council Chairman, Comrade Akeem Abas.
According to a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, journalists expressed deep concern over the prolonged delay in refunding the estate funds said to be in Akeugbagold’s custody. Members noted that despite several assurances, the money has yet to be returned, prompting the union to adopt a firm position on the matter.
The congress consequently resolved to instruct its legal counsel to issue a final demand letter to Akeugbagold, insisting that the ₦11 million be refunded within seven days. Failure to comply, the union warned, would leave it with no option but to pursue the matter through legal means.
The communiqué was drafted by committee members David Adeoye, Mosope Kehinde, and Victoria Ayanleye, and jointly signed by the Council Chairman, Akeem Abas, and Secretary, Temidayo Adu.
Beyond the estate fund issue, the congress also addressed concerns bordering on internal democracy within the union. Four chapels—32FM Chapel, New Media Chapel, Daar Communications Chapel, and Ajayi Crowther FM Chapel—were reinstated after being excluded from the December 9, 2025 NUJ election by the immediate past administration. The State Executive Council was directed to closely monitor the reinstated chapels to ensure strict compliance with the NUJ Constitution and operational guidelines.
On security matters, the congress strongly condemned the deteriorating security situation in Oyo State, particularly the recent bandit attack at Old Oyo National Park in Oloka Village, Oriire Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of five forest guards. The union described the incident as tragic and extended its condolences to the affected families and the Oloka community.
The NUJ urged the Oyo State Government and security agencies to urgently intensify security measures across the state, calling for improved border surveillance, stricter profiling of commercial motorcyclists entering Oyo State, and increased deployment of security personnel to vulnerable and remote areas.
The congress also tasked state-owned media organisations with strengthening public enlightenment on security-related issues, especially the growing threat of “one-chance” crimes, while advising residents to be cautious about sharing sensitive personal information on social media.
The meeting concluded with appreciation to journalists who attended the maiden congress under the Abas-led administration, as members were urged to remain united and committed to promoting press freedom, professionalism, and the welfare of journalists in Oyo State.
