Media Professionals Partner With Groups on Political Debates in Anambra

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), has disclosed plans to host a political debate in Anambra State among politicians ahead of the February general elections.

The project, tagged, ‘Anambra Political Dialogue -The Mace Debate’ is being organised in partnership with Society for Equity, Justice and Peace (SEJUP) and Bring it on Africa, both 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 Senatorial and House of Representatives seats.

She said the debate would be streamed live by all media houses in the state and would offer the candidates opportunities to showcase their worth to millions of Nigerians.

On his part, the Chairman, of Anambra State Council of NUJ, Dr Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, said candidates were expected to field questions from seasoned panellists, journalists, civil society groups, professional bodies, civil servants, students, commercial drivers, among others.

He added that residents outside the venue would also be given the opportunity to elicit questions from the candidates on their plans to move the state forward.

“The debate is expected to provide a level playing ground for all candidates to present their manifestos to the public to enable them make informed decisions on their choice candidates during the election” he said.

Poor quality representation

General Manager, SEJUP, Dr Emma Ezenwaji said the debate was necessary in view of the poor quality representation of many lawmakers in recent times.

The political debate will start on the 9th of February to end 11th and the time will be 9 am each day

Emmanuel Ukoh