The announcement was made in a communique issued at the conclusion of the State Congress of the union held at its secretariat.
The communique, signed by various union officials, stated that the withdrawal of services was in response to the appointment of a non-journalist, Mr. Nkereuwem Udom, as the Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, Mr. Udeme Otong. The union emphasised that any member who goes against this directive will face severe sanctions.
The communique highlighted the union's concern over the appointment, stating, "Congress frowned at this development and consequently warned that any defaulting member of the Union shall face severe sanctions." The NUJ also called on the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency to take immediate action against indiscriminate dumping of refuse along Atiku Abubakar Way, which has caused drainage blockage and subsequent flooding in the area.
In addition, the union urged the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to enforce traffic laws and arrest drivers who engage in wrong-way driving, as such behavior often leads to accidents.
The congress emphasised the need for the FRSC, the Motor Traffic Division of the Nigeria Police, and other traffic management authorities to take decisive action in addressing this issue.
The communique also addressed the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and its failure to remit fines generated from gas flaring in oil-producing communities in Akwa Ibom State. The NUJ expressed dissatisfaction with the commission's failure to direct the funds to the affected communities, as mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
The union called on the NUPRC to rectify this and ensure that gas flaring fines are properly distributed to the communities impacted by this practice.
Furthermore, the union urged the Nigeria Police Force Akwa Ibom Command and other security agencies in the state to intensify surveillance and develop strategies to combat the rising cases of phone theft in the Uyo metropolis.
The NUJ's decisions and concerns reflect its commitment to upholding journalistic standards and advocating for the welfare of its members. It remains to be seen how the relevant authorities will respond to these issues raised by the union.