By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor-in-Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Commander General and National Chairman of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Otunba James Udoma, has paid a condolence visit to the Council Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, following the death of the council’s former chairman, Comrade Patrick Osaretin.

During the visit, Otunba Udoma expressed his deep and heartfelt condolences to the leadership and entire membership of the NUJ, FCT Council, over the loss of the former chairman. He described the deceased as a respected member of the journalism community and prayed for God to grant him eternal rest while giving his family, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear the loss.

Receiving the VGN Commander General, the Chairman of the NUJ, FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, expressed her appreciation for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of the strong relationship and mutual respect between the VGN and the media. She said the gesture was particularly significant at a time when the council and the family of the deceased were mourning the loss of a former leader.

Comrade Ike also acknowledged the important role played by the Vigilante Group of Nigeria in supporting national security and protecting communities across the country. She noted that the VGN remains an important stakeholder in the security architecture of Nigeria, particularly through its grassroots presence, intelligence gathering and collaboration with relevant security agencies.

The NUJ FCT Chairman stressed the need for continued cooperation between the media and the VGN, noting that effective security requires not only the efforts of security personnel but also responsible communication and public awareness. She said the media has a critical responsibility to propagate security-conscious messages and support initiatives that promote peace, safety and stability across the country.

Comrade Grace Ike further congratulated Otunba James Udoma on his appointment as the new Commander General and National Chairman of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria. She expressed confidence in his leadership and wished him success in his new position, while urging the VGN under his leadership to continue strengthening its relationship with the media and other stakeholders in the national security sector.

In his remarks, Otunba Udoma reaffirmed the importance of maintaining a warm and productive relationship with the media, describing journalists as strategic partners in the collective effort to promote security and peace in Nigeria. He said the VGN would continue to work with the media in responsibly communicating security developments, creating public awareness and supporting initiatives aimed at protecting lives and property.

The VGN Commander General thanked the NUJ FCT Council for receiving him and once again conveyed his deepest condolences to the family of the late Comrade Patrick Osaretin, as well as to the entire NUJ family. He prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and wished all members of the NUJ strength, unity and continued success in their service to the journalism profession and the nation.