The Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Dr. Patrick Ebojele, on Thursday joined journalists in the state for a march past at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium as part of activities marking the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration.
Ebojele, a former journalist, was seen marching alongside members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), drawing attention from participants and spectators at the event.
Speaking on the sidelines in an interview, the governor’s aide said his participation was informed by a desire to identify with his professional roots and show solidarity with media practitioners.
“Journalism remains a noble profession that I am proud to have been part of. Joining my colleagues today is a way of appreciating their role in society and reaffirming my continued connection with the media,” he said.
Ebojele described Workers’ Day as an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of all categories of workers to national development, stressing that journalists remain key stakeholders in the democratic process.
He noted that the media plays a critical role in governance through information dissemination, public enlightenment and holding leaders accountable, adding that the governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration is at all time open to working with the press and hold them in high esteem.
Reacting, the Edo State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Dr. Festus Alenkhe, commended Ebojele for identifying with journalists, describing the gesture as a strong show of solidarity.
Alenkhe said the CPS’s participation underscores the enduring bond between the government and the media, noting that such actions help to strengthen trust and cooperation.
“It is commendable to see one of our own, who has risen to a key government position, still identifying with the profession. This kind of gesture boosts morale among journalists and reinforces the importance of our role in society,” he said.
He added that the NUJ in Edo State remains committed to upholding professional ethics while fostering constructive engagement with the government in the interest of the public.