IIJ debunks forgery claims, validates NUJ candidates’ credentials ahead of FCT elections

In a decisive blow to the baseless allegations being peddled by some desperate individuals, Victorson Agbenson, Johnchucks Onuanyim, and Emeka Nze, the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ), Abuja, has categorically cleared the candidates for the upcoming Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council elections of alleged certificate forgery.

This clarification, issued by the Institute during an inquiry by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, reaffirms the authenticity of the certificates presented by the candidates, putting to rest the smear campaign orchestrated by a faction of disgruntled journalists who lost out early during the electioneering process.

For over six years, the NUJ FCT Council has been held hostage by a select group of journalists whose vested interests have stagnated the progress and integrity of the union. Now, with the winds of change sweeping through the council, these same individuals are resorting to desperate tactics, including leveling baseless accusations of certificate forgery against legitimate candidates.

Addressing journalists who honored an invitation by the police, Commissioner of Police (OPS) Olajide Rufus Ibitoye Msc, PCs speaking on behalf of the Deputy Inspector General of Police , Force Intelligence Department (FID) in Abuja
stated clearly that contrary to the petitioners’ prayers, the Police cannot stop the election process and anyone who has grievances should approach the industrial court.

Ibitoye further stated that should the council need police protection for election, a formal request should be made through the Commissioner of Police, FCT State Command.

The controversy began when Victor Abegenso, a chairmanship aspirant with a history of questionable leadership practices, alongside two others, filed a petition accusing Grace Ike of Advocates Broadcasting Network, Ndambabo Yahaya of Voice of Nigeria, Jide Oyekunle of Daily Independent, and Edeh Sandra Ogechukwu of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria of forging their Postgraduate Diploma certificates in Journalism from IIJ.

However, during their appearance before the police, the IIJ officials unequivocally confirmed that the certificates and statements of results presented by the accused candidates were genuine and had been duly issued by the institution.

In their response, the IIJ representatives explained that the discrepancies highlighted by the petitioners—such as dates of admission and graduation—were administrative nuances that did not compromise the authenticity of the documents.

They further clarified that the institution’s issuance process adheres strictly to academic protocols, and the candidates in question met all the requirements for their certifications.

This revelation has exposed the petitioners’ allegations as a calculated attempt to discredit the candidates and manipulate the electoral process to their advantage.

Victorson Agbenson, in particular, has been at the forefront of this smear campaign, seeking to divert attention from his inability to articulate a clear vision for the council. His actions, however, have only served to reinforce his reputation as a divisive figure unfit to lead a union that demands integrity and transparency.

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, reiterated that its involvement in the matter was purely investigatory and not an interference in the NUJ elections.

This development marks a turning point for the NUJ FCT Council. For years, the council has suffered under a system that prioritized personal gain over collective progress. With the IIJ’s clarification, it is evident that the era of using falsehoods and intimidation to maintain the status quo is over.

As the December 4 elections approach, journalists within the council must remain vigilant and resist the antics of those who seek to derail the democratic process. The NUJ FCT Council is on the brink of a new era—one that prioritizes accountability, professionalism, and the welfare of its members.

The truth has prevailed, and it is now clear that the allegations of certificate forgery were nothing more than a desperate ploy by those unwilling to relinquish their grip on power. Whether they like it or not, the NUJ FCT Council is poised for change, and every injustice done to its members will be addressed.

The elections will undoubtedly mark the beginning of a brighter future for the NUJ FCT Council—a future built on integrity, transparency, and the unwavering resolve of journalists who refuse to be silenced.