The publishers of community newspapers in Delta State, operating under the Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), have unanimously expressed their full support for the leadership of Chairman Comrade Jude Obiemenyego.
The vote of confidence was passed during an expansive meeting held at the association’s headquarters in Asaba. The gathering also served as a platform for further discussions about the future direction of the organization and its role in the media landscape.
The event was organized with the assistance of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Newspapers, Prince Orhmonokpaye, who represented the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor. During the meeting, Obiemenyego reaffirmed the strength and unity of the ACNPN, emphasizing its important role as the leading umbrella body for community newspapers in Delta State.
Obiemenyego also took the opportunity to announce the reintegration of three previously suspended publishers: Chief Femi Odonmita, publisher of Warri Voice Newspaper; Chief Daniel Ekiugbo, publisher of Ugheli Times; and Dr. Dike Awana, publisher of Frontline News. The three publishers were welcomed back into the fold with a waiver, although they are required to fulfill specific constitutional obligations to fully re-establish their membership within the association.
During the meeting, the re-admitted publishers shared their thoughts. Chief Femi Odonmita expressed his intention to contribute as an advisor to the association, noting that he would no longer seek a leadership position. Chief Daniel Ekiugbo thanked the association for keeping the ideals of its founders alive during their absence and promised to adhere to the association’s constitutional processes for full re-admission. Dr. Dike Awana, despite his previous absence, praised the association’s leadership and commitment, pledging to abide by the established rules and principles of the ACNPN.
The publishers also took a moment to visit the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, at his office in the Government House to further solidify their partnership with the state government. Sir Festus Ahon congratulated the ACNPN for its peaceful approach and emphasized the need for all stakeholders to maintain harmony in order to effectively implement the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. He further stressed the importance of constructive criticism in supporting the government’s efforts and called on the ACNPN to help publicize the administration’s positive achievements.
