Divine Mandate Team Accepts Akeem Abas Victory in Oyo NUJ Election

The widely admired and most talked-about group in the just-concluded Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) election, the Divine Mandate Team, has congratulated all winners of Tuesday’s keenly contested polls, describing their emergence as a victory for the Union and for the collective progress of journalism in the state.

In a statement signed by the Divine Mandate’s Chairmanship and Secretaryship Candidates, Comrade Raji Adebayo and Comrade Olamide Adeniji, the team extended heartfelt congratulations to Comrade Akeem Abas, who has been sworn in as the new Chairman of the Oyo State Council of NUJ; Comrade Adu, winner of the Secretaryship seat; and Comrade Moses Morenikeji, the Divine Mandate Team’s own candidate, who now serves as Treasurer of the Council.

The Mandate Group has however indicated that it will formally requested for the ballot papers casted during the elections from the Electoral Committee for verification.

The Divine Mandate in the statement prayed for a successful, peaceful, productive and progressive tenure for the new executive, urging them to uphold the dignity, values and ethical excellence that define the journalism profession.

The Team commended all chapels for their participation, describing their commitment to the democratic process as an affirmation of the Union’s strength.

Divine Mandate’ further said in the release, “We deeply appreciate every chapel that stood firm in defence of a better Union, and all members who offered us their support, encouragement and votes. Every ballot cast in our favour was a testament to your trust in our vision, and we do not take it for granted.”

“Drawing from the words of former UN Secretary-General, Dag Hammarskjöld — “ *For all that has been, thanks. To all that shall be, yes.*” — the Team noted that the election may have concluded, but the responsibility of building a stronger NUJ continues.

“We Remain United, Stronger and More Committed Than Ever”

While acknowledging the outcome of the election, the Divine Mandate Team emphasized that its structure remains solid, vibrant and unbroken.

It said, “Divine Mandate is not a name; it is a movement, a mission anchored on integrity, unity and service. We remain intact — even more united, more refined, and more committed than before. Our loyalty to the progress of journalists in Oyo State is unwavering.”

Quoting Aristotle, the statement added: “It is not enough to win an election; one must also win the people.”

The Team assured journalists in the state that its commitment to professional growth, solidarity and welfare will continue beyond elections.

The Team reaffirmed its dedication to support all members of the Divine Mandate family and to contribute meaningfully to the growth and advancement of journalism in Oyo State.

“We will keep standing by our people. We will continue to offer guidance, support, and strength to every member of our team and to all journalists, regardless of chapel or affiliation. Our guiding principle remains simple: when journalism thrives, society thrives.”

The Divine Mandate Team concluded by urging all media professionals to rally behind the new leadership and uphold the unity of the Union.

OYO NEWS