The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, has raised concerns over the rampant increase in prices of goods and essential commodities, particularly in the state capital, Akure. In a communique issued during the union congress presided over by NUJ State Chairman, Leke Adegbite, the union criticized the role of middlemen and traders in escalating the costs of food and services in Akure.

“The congress expressed deep concern over the high cost of goods in Ondo State,” stated the NUJ. “Activities of middlemen and traders’ unions in the soaring cost of goods and services across Ondo State, particularly Akure, the state capital, are becoming unbearable compared to other neighboring states.”

The NUJ also condemned the ineffective performance of the Consumer Protection Council and Unit, which should be safeguarding consumer interests, but whose laxity has exacerbated the situation. “Ondo NUJ expresses dissatisfaction with the poor performance of the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) in the state, calling on the government’s agency to live up to the masses’ expectations,” the union emphasized.

Highlighting the growing frustration among Akure residents, the NUJ called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and traditional rulers to establish a task force to regulate the prices of goods and services. This concern comes amid rising costs of food items and necessities following the removal of fuel subsidy and the naira’s devaluation.

In response, Governor Aiyedatiwa constituted a 10-man committee on Tuesday to address the rising cost of food items and promote agricultural development for food security.

The NUJ also urged political candidates in the upcoming November 16 governorship election to avoid violence and adhere to electoral rules. Additionally, the union pledged to combat the influx of fake journalists during the election period.

Furthermore, the NUJ criticized the poor service delivery at the UNIMED Teaching Hospital in Akure but commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for the recruitment of more health workers. The union also praised the state government’s initiative to employ 2000 new teachers, prioritizing primary and secondary schools in rural and riverine areas.

“The congress commends the state government’s efforts to employ 2000 new teachers and to give priority to primary and secondary schools in rural areas in the recruitment exercise, particularly in the riverine area of the state,” the NUJ concluded.