*My Relationship With Oyo NUJ Built on Mutual Respect, Shared Values – Shina Peller*

The Ayedero of Yorubaland, Chief Shina Peller, has declared that his longstanding relationship with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, is apolitical and not driven by personal political ambition.

Peller made the clarification while speaking at the 8th Shina Peller NUJ Ramadan Lecture and Iftar held at the Dapo Aderogba Hall of the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku GRA, Ibadan.

He explained that his association with the union predated his political career, stressing that it was built on mutual respect and shared values, particularly the commitment to truthful reportage and responsible journalism.

The former member of the House of Representatives noted that credible journalism remains a cornerstone for national development, adding that journalists must be encouraged to uphold ethical standards in the discharge of their duties.

Peller, who attended the event alongside close associates, Alhaji Tajudeen Ajala and Mr. Gbenga Awosoro, popularly known as Demdebula, commended the union for sustaining the Ramadan Lecture and Iftar initiative over the years.

He praised successive administrations of the Oyo NUJ for maintaining the programme since its inception nine years ago, describing the consistency as commendable.

The Ayedero of Yorubaland urged journalists to continue exposing corruption and abuse of office, promoting human rights and amplifying the voices of marginalised communities without fear or favour.

Delivering the Ramadan Lecture titled “The Role of Journalists in Promoting Peace and Security,” Dr. Adam Akewula, an associate professor in the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies at the University of Ibadan, emphasised that information dissemination should be guided by humanity, ethics, and tolerance.

Akewula stated that journalists play a crucial role in fostering peaceful coexistence and national stability, noting that religious and cultural diversity must be reported with sensitivity and responsibility.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the NUJ, Oyo State Council, Mr. Akeem Abas said that since assuming office on December 9, 2025, his administration had initiated programmes that prioritise journalists’ welfare, capacity building, ethical reorientation, digital training and professional unity across the state.

The event climaxed with the breaking of fast and was attended by members of the Oyo NUJ, heads of media establishments, veterans and other stakeholders in the media industry.