The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, has appealed to the Rivers State Government, corporate organisations, philanthropists and well-meaning Nigerians to urgently assist veteran journalist and publisher, Elder Eddie Williams, who is battling a prolonged cardiovascular-related illness.
Speaking at the NUJ Secretariat on Moscow Road, Port Harcourt, on Monday, the Chairman of the Council, Comrade Paul Bazia, said Williams, whose ailment was first diagnosed in 2014, is in critical condition and requires urgent specialised medical treatment.
Bazia explained that medical experts handling the veteran journalist’s case have recommended further specialised examinations and treatment estimated to cost several millions of naira, an amount beyond his financial capacity.
He noted that Williams has sought medical care in several hospitals within and outside Nigeria over the years, but his condition now requires more advanced and expensive medical intervention.
The NUJ chairman said the appeal was aimed at drawing the attention of government, corporate organisations, public-spirited individuals and friends of the media to the urgent need to save the life of one of the profession’s distinguished practitioners.
According to him, Williams, publisher of the Port Harcourt-based Envoy Newspaper, built a reputation through investigative journalism, advocacy and campaigns that promoted justice, protected vulnerable groups and advanced societal development.
Bazia described the ailing journalist as a prolific writer, mentor and seasoned media professional who dedicated decades to mentoring young journalists and promoting ethical journalism.
He stressed that preserving Williams’ life would not only be a humanitarian gesture but would also enable future generations of journalists to continue benefiting from his wealth of professional experience.
The NUJ chairman specifically appealed to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, local government chairmen, corporate organisations, charitable bodies and well-meaning Nigerians to support Williams’ medical treatment through financial contributions.
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He expressed optimism that timely intervention would enable the veteran journalist to undergo the required specialised medical procedures and recover.
Bazia added that donations, regardless of the amount, would help offset the huge medical expenses and appealed that all financial contributions be paid into the NUJ Rivers State Council account: GTBank, Account Number: 0039580026.
The appeal was endorsed by the committee set up for the fundraising, led by Dr. Chris Okonkwo as Chairman, King Onunwor as Secretary, Ilanye Jumbo as member, and the Secretary of the NUJ Rivers State Council, Dr. Ijeoma Tubosia.
