The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, on Wednesday said it has, in line with global practices, set machinery in motion to organize live debates for gubernatorial candidates of political parties participating in the forthcoming 2019 general elections in the state.
In a statement by Comrade Micheal Ikeogwu and Comrade Churchill Oyowe, chairman and Secretary, NUJ, Delta Council respectively, the decision to organise the debate was in exercise of it’s constitutional role as watchdog of the society and agenda setting role by giving vent to every marketable idea before the electorate.
NUJ said the debate is a forum for candidates to prove they have superior ideas to offer the electorates, adding that it will also provide an opportunity for them to convince the electorates on what makes them exceptionally qualified as individuals to be the governor of Delta State and distinguished senators.
According to the statement, “the debate will hold at a time to be announced soon as the NUJ Delta State Council is in talks with some television stations across the country to beam the debate live globally.”
The State Council therefore, advised political parties fielding candidates for governorship position to dust their files and get their candidates ready for the live debate.
“NUJ Delta State Council is ready to partner individuals and organizations who may be interested in pursuing this noble cause aimed at giving opportunity to the electorates to make informed decision on who is best suited for the job,” the statement reads.
Meanwhile, according to the statement also, the Delta State Council of the NUJ, has entered into partnership with Quest Television and Radio, Otor-Ogor, Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area and Bridge FM Asaba, for 1 hour and 30 minutes programme, respectively.
“While Quest TV and Radio will run simultaneously on Tuesdays and Fridays of every week between 1pm and 2pm, Bridge FM Asaba will play host to NUJ Delta between 10:15am and 10:45 am every Thursday.
“This is in line with Comrade Michael Ikeogwu led administration of the NUJ Delta to give the union a voice and effectively play it’s role of agenda setting and watchdog of the society. The live programme will afford the union the opportunity bring guest to speak on issues of the moment as members of the union will also be guests and anchors as we progress,” the s statement added.
