The League of Veteran Journalists, Oyo State, has distanced itself from a lecture scheduled for Monday, October 26, at the Millennium Hall of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, saying the event is not being organised by the body.
The League, in a statement signed by its chairman, Banji Ogundele, described the purported organiser, the Veteran Journalists’ Association of Nigeria, as a “phantom organisation” and warned members of the public against being misled over the event.
It maintained that the League of Veteran Journalists, established in 1988, was the only recognised body of veteran journalists in Oyo State.
Ogundele said the clarification became necessary to protect the integrity of the journalism profession and prevent individuals from allegedly using the name of veteran journalists for personal interests.
According to the League, its membership comprises journalists and media practitioners who have spent at least 25 years in the profession.
Among its members, the statement listed prominent media figures, including Aremo Olusegun Osoba, Felix Adenaike, Bamiji Ojo, Layi Agbaje, Tunde Akingbade, Agboola Sanni, Kola Animasaun, Jare Ajayi, Bose Oyewole, Oladele Idris, Biodun Oduwole, Lanre Ogundipe, Shade Haastrup and Bolaji Kareem.
The League said its objectives include promoting press freedom, upholding professional ethics, encouraging public awareness through discussions and critical reviews, as well as protecting the welfare and interests of its members.
It added that the organisation remained committed to advancing the journalism profession and safeguarding its reputation.
The League urged members of the public to take note of its position on the planned lecture, stressing the need to protect the profession from actions it believes could undermine its credibility.
