Labour leaders urge journalists to strengthen watchdog role in Nigeria

Labour leaders in Nigeria have called on journalists to intensify their watchdog role, emphasizing the need to hold governments accountable and consistently address the challenges faced by Nigerian workers. This call was made at a tribute event in Lagos honoring the late Sylvester Enoghase, a veteran Labour and Business Editor for Daily Independent who passed away on June 16 at the age of 60.

Enoghase was remembered by colleagues, labor leaders, and friends for his significant contributions to labor reporting and advocacy. Speakers at the event suggested that promoting workers' welfare and ensuring governmental accountability are the most fitting ways to preserve his memory and legacy. Several organizations, including the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), and the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), presented tributes.

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When the news of the passing of our friend and colleague in the struggle, Comrade Sylvester Enoghase, first broke, we dismissed it as a rumour. The rest is now history, and here we are to bid farewell to this fine gentleman.

Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), described Enoghase as a highly competent and committed professional journalist. Prince Peters Adeyemi, General Secretary of NASU, noted that Enoghase was more than a journalist, acting as a dependable partner in the struggle for social justice and workers' welfare. Tony Marsha, Deputy Secretary-General of ASCSN, urged labor correspondents to uphold Enoghase's ideals by maintaining professionalism, strengthening partnerships, and prioritizing public-interest journalism. He stressed the importance of keeping the government in check and continuing to highlight the working conditions of the working class to honor Enoghase's memory.

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If we must continue to serve the memory of Sylvester, we must maintain that momentum of keeping the government in check. We also have the responsibility to continue to highlight the working conditions of the working class.