…tagged, ‘The Mace Debate’ is being organised in partnership with Society for Equity Justice and Peace
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers’ Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), on Thursday disclosed plans to host political debate as part of their contributions towards restoring good governance and accountability among politicians ahead February general elections.
The project, tagged, ‘The Mace Debate’ is being organised in partnership with Society for Equity Justice and Peace (SEJUP) and Bring it on Africa, non-governmental organisations.
Addressing reporters in Awka, Anambra State, Chairman, RATTAWU in the state, Mrs Maureen Stone-Enujioke, said the targeted politicians are candidates of various political parties contesting for seats at both Red and Green chambers of the National Assembly.
She expressed optimism that the debate, which she said would be streamed live by all media houses in the state would offer the candidates opportunities to prove their worth to millions of Nigerians.
On his part, Chairman, State Council of NUJ, Dr Emeka Odogwu, said candidates were expected to field questions from seasoned panelists, journalists, civil society groups, professional bodies, civil servants, students, commercial drivers, among others.
He added that residents outside the venue would also be given opportunity to elicit questions from the candidates on their plans to move the state forward.
“The debate is expected to provide level playing field for the candidates to present their manifestoes to the public to enable them make informed decisions on their choice candidates during the election, ” he added.
General Manager, SEJUP, Dr Emma Ezenwaji said the debate was necessary in view of poor quality representation of many lawmakers in recent times, while President, Bring it on Africa, Chigbo Nweke promised to provide the technical and logistics support to ensure successful debate.
