By Luchee Igwe
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers’ Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), Society for Equity Justice and Peace (SEJUP), Anambra, in collaboration with Bring it on Africa, have held political debate as part of efforts to bring about good governance and accountability to bear on politicians ahead of the general elections.
At a news conference on Thursday, in Awka, Mrs Maureen Stone-Enujioke, state Chairman, RATTAWU, said that the debate is tagged ‘The Mace Debate’.
According to her, it would hold among candidates of different political parties contesting for seats at the Senate, House of Representatives and State House of Assembly.
“The collaboration among the NUJ RATTAWU, SEJUP and Bring it on Africa, is to present an excellent and talk of the town debate, being a maiden edition, ” she said.
Also speaking, Dr Emeka Odogwu, Chairman, NUJ, Anambra state Council, said the debate was to provide a level playing field for all the candidates to present their manifestoes to the general public.
Odogwu said that the candidates would field questions from seasoned panelists, journalists, civil society groups, professional bodies, students, market men and women, artisans, commercial drivers, as well as civil servants, among others.
According to him, residents outside the venue will also be given the opportunity to ask questions from the candidates on how they want to move Anambra forward.
“This debate will be streamed live, so that electorate can listen to the candidates and make informed decision about their choice candidates during the general election, ” he said.
Dr Emma Ezenwaji, General Manager, SEJUP, said that consultations were ongoing to come up with a convenient date of and venue for the debate.
Mr Chigbo Nweke, President, Bring it on Africa, a non-governmental organisation, also said that he was ready to provide the technical and logistics support to ensure a successful political debate.
