By Gabriel Ameh
The Commandant-General of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Otunba James Udoma, has paid a condolence visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, following the death of the Council’s former Chairman, Comrade Patrick Osadebamwen.
Udoma led a delegation of the VGN to the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday, September 3, 2026, where they were received by members of the Council’s executive, led by Chairman Comrade Grace Ike, who was represented by the Financial Secretary, Comrade Henry Daniel-Abimiku.
Speaking during the visit, the VGN Commandant-General expressed sadness over Osadebamwen’s death, saying the delegation came to identify with the NUJ and offer its condolences to journalists over the loss.
He described the NUJ as a close partner and assured the Council of the VGN’s continued support during the period of mourning.
“On behalf of my entire team, the Vigilante Group of Nigeria and our structures across the country, we are here as a body to condole with the Union over the demise of the past Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council.
“NUJ happens to be our home, our friend and our body. We are part of NUJ and are committed to promoting peace in Nigeria. So, we are here to say that we condole with you; we are part of you. Any other activity concerning this sad development, please let us be aware. We are going to be part of you on this journey,” Udoma said.
Responding, NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, represented by the Financial Secretary, Henry Daniel-Abimiku, thanked the VGN delegation for identifying with the Council at a difficult time.
Ike also commended the Vigilante Group of Nigeria for its contributions to peace and security in the Federal Capital Territory and other parts of the country.
She said journalists remained committed to informing the public, holding institutions accountable and promoting truth and transparency, noting that the work of security and community-based organisations directly contributes to the safety and well-being of communities.
“We, as journalists, are committed to informing the public, holding institutions accountable and fostering an environment where truth and transparency prevail.
“We recognize that the work of the Vigilante Group directly impacts the safety and security that allow our society to function and citizens to live without fear,” she said.
The NUJ FCT Council chairman further expressed the Council’s interest in strengthening its relationship with the Vigilante Group of Nigeria.
She said deeper collaboration between journalists, security agencies and community-based organisations would help promote peace, public safety, responsible information dissemination and community development.
The condolence visit ended with both organisations reaffirming their commitment to partnership, mutual support and the shared pursuit of a safer and more peaceful society.
