Why Is the South East Silent on Grace Ike’s Chairmanship Aspiration?
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
In what seems like a remarkable turn in the race for the Chairmanship of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Grace Ike, a female journalist of Igbo extraction, has garnered widespread endorsements from various groups across the country. However, a puzzling trend remains: the seeming lack of support from her own South East region rather, one of them who is neither a contestant in the election nor a rival went to court to stop the election.
Grace Ike’s aspiration has been described as groundbreaking, especially given the clamour for more gender-inclusive leadership within the media space. Her vision for a more united and progressive NUJ resonates with stakeholders who have hailed her competence, experience, and innovative ideas. Yet, her South East constituency remains conspicuously silent.
The Question of Regional Loyalty
Why are groups from the South East hesitant to rally behind their sister, who stands as a beacon of hope and representation for the region? This silence has raised eyebrows, particularly when viewed against the backdrop of endorsements pouring in from other parts of the country.
Could it be political intrigues, internal rivalry, or a lack of awareness about her capabilities? Or are there underlying cultural or institutional factors at play? But we know these are not the issue here. Many are beginning to ask these questions and more.
A Missed Opportunity?
For a region that has long sought greater representation in the leadership of NUJ FCT council, supporting Grace Ike would have seemed like a natural course of action. Her success could have served as an inspiration, not just for South East journalists but for women across the country, proving that competence transcends gender and regional lines.
A Call for Introspection
The silence from the South East calls for introspection among stakeholders from the region. Supporting their own, especially one with the qualifications and widespread appeal of Grace Ike, could be a strategic move to showcasing the region’s unity and progressive stance.
As the election draws closer, the South East faces a choice: to remain on the sidelines or join the growing movement rallying behind Grace Ike’s vision for transformative leadership. The nation is watching, and history will remember the role each region played in shaping the future of the NUJ FCT Council.
Will the South East rise to the occasion? Time will tell. Bikonu, umunnem k’anyi teta n’ula n’ihi n’anyi ekwesighi idi k’onu akolu anyi
