Leadership is not defined by verbal accomplishments. A good leader is judged by their past actions and achievements.
It should come as no surprise to anyone that Grace Ike is my choice for the FCT NUJ Council chairmanship position.
In journalism, there has always been gender neutrality, and that hasn’t changed.
When I first encountered this remarkable woman; not in person, but through her well-established reputation, I was immediately impressed by her admirable achievements.
Her accomplishments, as outlined by her supporters, were not intangible or empty but solid, visible milestones.
When I finally met her, I was even more struck by her humility, brilliance, passion for journalism, and dedication to the welfare of its practitioners. As I got to know her better, I discovered a depth of character quite unusual for someone her age. Comrade Grace Ike’s commitment to accountability in all spheres, her tireless work ethic, and her calm demeanor showed a person of strong values and excellent education.
I marveled at her quiet but determined demeanor; you might call her a woman of steel. She possesses a strong character, not given to frivolity or laziness. She surrounds herself with like-minded people; determined, focused, tenacious, and goal-driven.
Naturally, I wanted to learn more about this “Graceful Gazelle” of journalism. I asked around, and what I discovered was truly remarkable. During her tenure as Chairman of the House of Reps Chapel, Comrade Grace Ike restored the dignity of the profession. Honourable members began to recognize journalism as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, the fourth tier of government, if you will.
Journalists were treated with the respect they deserve, walking the green chambers with their heads held high and taking their rightful place in the heart of the legislature.
Additionally, a fully equipped press center with state-of-the-art technology to aid in reporting and news dissemination was established, along with other necessary amenities.
Notably, the welfare of reporters covering the House of Reps became the envy of those reporting on other beats. There was no longer any need for the usual “donate to support a sick colleague” calls. That was a thing of the past under Grace Ike’s leadership.
To crown her successful tenure, Comrade Grace Ike’s transparency in an organization where accountability has been rare in recent years, received widespread praise.
However, there has been significant resistance to Grace Ike’s candidacy for the FCT NUJ Council chairmanship. In a patriarchal society like ours, one might expect journalists…the gatekeepers of society…to set a higher standard. Unfortunately, some individuals within the FCT have resorted to playing the gender card in response to Grace Ike’s formidable qualifications and the fact that she is the candidate to beat.
Some archaic minds have even declared that they would never allow a woman to hold the position of FCT Council Chairman. It is especially disheartening when you consider that Lagos, Kaduna, and other states have already elected female NUJ chairpersons. Yet, these individuals – cavemen, if you may – in the Federal Capital Territory of all places, continue to resist progress.
However, fortunately their attempts to undermine her have only strengthened her support…I tell you, Grace’s support base is as massive as it is generic. It is a revolution.
These detractors even tried to use the tribal card, suggesting that women are not allowed to lead in Igbo culture. When they were asked about prominent Igbo women like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Obi Ezekwesili, Bianca Onoh, Dr. Stella Okoli, Stella Oduah and so many others, they quickly retreated like rats scurrying from an oncoming storm.
In truth, Comrade Grace’s achievements in every capacity she has served far overshadow the accomplishments of these enemies of progress and their cohorts.
If there is one lesson Comrade Grace has taught me, it is the power of silence. She moves through life without arrogance or prejudice, holding no grudges despite the challenges she has faced. What you see in her is a relentless determination and commitment to advocate for better opportunities for journalists.
Therefore, I wholeheartedly endorse this vibrant, brilliant, and capable woman as my choice for the role of NUJ FCT Council Chairman, or “Chairperson,” if you prefer that title.
Comrade Grace Ike is a fighter, walking where angels fear to tread. She is an achiever, and I am fully convinced that she will restore the respect, grandeur, and prestige our noble profession deserves – a profession for which I have sacrificed blood and tears. We must return journalism to the glory days when we were proud to say, “I am a journalist!”
– By Moji Danisa
