Lagos NUJ Council Election: Innocent Anaba Steps Down, Alleges Voters’ List Manipulation

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

Innocent Anaba, a candidate in the Lagos State Council election of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has announced his decision to step down from the contest scheduled for today, November 8, 2026, citing irregularities and a compromised electoral process.

​In a press statement released on his withdrawal, Anaba alleged that the election committee failed to address key issues, including the inflation of delegate lists and campaign deadline violations.

​”We have noticed how delegate lists were inflated and deadline for campaign breached, but instead of sanctions, the party that breached the deadline was rewarded with an extension,” Anaba stated.

​Highlighting specific discrepancies, Anaba pointed out that the voter list for the Lagos State Information Chapel jumped significantly to 309 delegates. He noted that despite repeated requests for clarification and supporting documentation regarding the added delegates, neither the electoral committee nor the national body of the NUJ responded.

​Explaining his choice to step aside rather than participate under current conditions, Anaba expressed concern that continuing would legitimize an unfairly structured election.

​”As it stands, the odds have been worked against me from the start, so taking part in the election I know has been worked against me is not wisdom, because I will be accused of failing to withdraw when I noticed the manipulations,” he said.

​Despite his withdrawal, Anaba emphasized that his commitment to pushing for leadership reform within the union remains unchanged, asserting that he will continue advocating for an NUJ led by active, practicing journalists.

​”The fight is not over yet, because an NUJ led by a professional and practicing journalist is all I am asking for and I will go to any length to see that it happens,” he declared.

​Anaba concluded his statement by expressing gratitude to his campaign team, supporters, and colleagues for their support.