The Commandant-General of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Otunba James Udoma, on Thursday 3rd September, 2026 paid a condolence visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, over the death of the Council’s former Chairman, Comrade Patrick Osadebamwen.
The Commandant-General, who led a delegation of the VGN to the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Abuja, was received by members of the Council’s Executive, led by the Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, who was represented by the Financial Secretary, Comrade Henry Daniel-Abimiku.
Expressing sadness over the sudden demise of the former NUJ FCT Chairman, Udoma said the VGN delegation was at the Council Secretariat to identify with the Union and condole with journalists over the loss.
“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,” he said.
Responding, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, represented by the Council’s Financial Secretary, Henry Daniel-Abimiku, expressed appreciation to the Commandant-General and the VGN delegation for identifying with the Council during the difficult period.
Ike also acknowledged the vital role being played by the Vigilante Group of Nigeria in maintaining peace and security within the Federal Capital Territory and across the country.
She said, “I extend a warm welcome and express our sincere respect for the vital role you are playing in maintaining peace and security within the Federal Capital Territory and Nigeria at large. Your dedication and tireless efforts on the ground are indispensable to the well-being of our 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.”
The NUJ FCT Chairman further stated that the Council was keenly interested in strengthening and deepening its relationship with the Vigilante Group of Nigeria.
She noted that stronger collaboration between journalists and security and community-based organisations would contribute significantly to promoting peace, public safety, responsible information dissemination and community development.
The condolence visit provided an opportunity for both organisations to reaffirm their commitment to partnership, mutual support and the collective pursuit of a safer and more peaceful society.