2023 polls: NUJ, RATTAWU, others to organise debate for candidates in Anambra

In the effort to help present credible candidates in the coming general elections, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers’ Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), Society for Equity Justice and Peace (SEJUP), Anambra State, in collaboration with Bring it on Africa, said they have concluded arrangements to organise political debate for candidates in Anambra.

At a news conference, yesterday, in Awka, they said the debate, tagged: ‘The Mace Debate,’ would help bring about accountability and good governance on the part of politicians ahead of the general elections.

Addressing newsmen, the state Chairman, RATTAWU, Maureen Stone-Enujioke, said the aim is to attract candidates from different political parties contesting for seats at the Senate, House of Representatives and State House of Assembly to inform Anambra citizens on what and how they will benefit from their representation.

She said: “The collaboration among the NUJ, RATTAWU, SEJUP and Bring it on Africa is to create a unifying platform for candidates vying for different political positions in the state to tell the electorate what they have to offer.”

In his speech, Chairman, NUJ, Anambra State Council, Dr. Emeka Odogwu, assured that the debate would provide a level playing field for candidates to present their manifestoes to the general public.

Odogwu explained that the debate would be streamed live so that the electorate can listen to candidates and make informed decision about their preferred candidates during the general election.

He noted: “The candidates would answer 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.

“Residents from outside the venue will also be given the opportunity to ask questions on how candidates intend to move Anambra forward.”

Also speaking, the General Manager, SEJUP, Dr. Emma Ezenwaji, disclosed that consultations were ongoing to come up with a convenient date for the debate, as he called on politicians to prepare, take advantage of the debate by participating actively.