NUJ Delta Election: Aniagu Urges STAND-UP, POWER CONSOLIDATION TEAMS to Shun Division, Embrace Peace

ASABA — Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural and Internal Roads) and Public Information, Hon. Charles Aniagu, has urged contestants in the forthcoming Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council election to embrace peace, tolerance and responsible conduct as the two major teams intensify campaigns ahead of Thursday's poll.

Aniagu made the appeal during an unscheduled visit to the Information Chapel in Asaba, where the STAND-UP Team was campaigning and presenting its manifesto to journalists ahead of the October 15, 2026 election.

The commissioner, who oversees the Ministry of Information, used the opportunity to address the journalists and emphasise the need to sustain peace, unity and mutual respect before, during and after the election.

He assured residents that Delta State was not at war, stressing that political and electoral contests should not create unnecessary tension, hostility or division among people.

The NUJ Delta State Council election, scheduled for Thursday, is expected to feature a contest between the STAND-UP Team and the POWER CONSOLIDATION Teams, with both groups seeking the mandate of journalists to lead the council.

Aniagu Advocates Issue-Based Campaigns

The commissioner urged contestants and their supporters to focus on presenting their visions, programmes and manifestos rather than engaging in activities capable of generating animosity among members.

He expressed confidence in the ability of journalists to make informed choices when candidates clearly communicate their plans and demonstrate what they intend to achieve if elected.

According to him, electoral campaigns should provide an opportunity for candidates to convince voters through their programmes instead of creating divisions that could undermine professional relationships.

Aniagu also stressed the importance of allowing voters to make independent decisions without financial inducement, intimidation or coercion, urging all participants to operate within the provisions of the law.

Commissioner Explains His Neutrality

Aniagu further explained his decision to remain neutral in the contest, noting that openly identifying with one team could alienate members supporting the opposing side.

He said his responsibility as the commissioner overseeing the Ministry of Information required him to maintain cordial relationships with different groups rather than take positions that could divide the people.

“If I support you or I support him, those who are on your line will see me as their enemy. Meanwhile, before, I am their friend,” he remarked.

The commissioner emphasised that electoral differences should not turn colleagues and friends into enemies, adding that the collective interest of the journalism profession should remain paramount.

STAND-UP, POWER CONSOLIDATION Teams Prepare for Thursday's Poll
With the election only days away, the STAND-UP and POWER CONSOLIDATION teams are expected to intensify their campaigns as they seek to win the support of NUJ members across Delta State.

The STAND-UP Team was presenting its manifesto to members of the Information Chapel when Aniagu made his unscheduled visit, during which he delivered his message of peace, neutrality and responsible electoral participation.

His intervention comes at a critical moment in the electioneering process, with expectations that the competing teams will conduct themselves professionally and respect the choices of eligible voters.

Aniagu also commended the atmosphere of peace and harmony maintained within the ministry over the past seven years, appreciating the leadership and workers for their contributions to cordial working relationships.

He urged all stakeholders to sustain the spirit of unity beyond the election, stressing that the pursuit of leadership should not undermine professional solidarity or the peaceful coexistence of journalists in Delta State.

As the October 15 election approaches, the commissioner's message reinforces the need for a peaceful contest in which ideas, manifestos and the confidence of NUJ members determine the outcome.