2019: Delta NUJ organises debate for guber, senatorial candidates

THE Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has set machinery in motion for a live debate for gubernatorial candidates of political parties participating in the forthcoming 2019 general elections in the State.

This is in an exercise of its constitutional role as watchdog of the society and agenda-setting role by giving vent to every marketable idea before the electorate.

Chairman and Secretary of the state council, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu and Comrade Churchill Oyowe, in a statement made available to journalists in Delta, said the forum would enable candidates to marshal their ideas before the electorate.

“It will also provide an opportunity for them to convince the electorate on what makes them exceptionally qualified as individuals to be the governor of Delta State and distinguished senators.

“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 to the world.

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“Political parties fielding candidates for governorship position are hereby, advised to dust their files and get their candidates ready for the live debate,” Ikeogwu disclosed.

He added that the state NUJ council was ready to partner individuals and organizations who might be interested in pursuing the cause aimed at giving opportunities to the electorate to make informed decisions on who is best suited for the job.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Council of the NUJ has entered into a partnership with Quest Television and Radio, Otor-Ogor, Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area and Bridge FM Asaba, for one hour and 30 minutes programme, respectively.

While Quest TV and Radio will run simultaneously on Tuesdays and Fridays of every week between 1:00 p.m and 2:00p.m, Bridge FM Asaba will play host to NUJ Delta between 10:15 a.m and 10:45 a.m 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 its role of agenda-setting and watchdog of the society.

The live programme will afford the union the opportunity to bring guests to speak on issues of the moment as members of the union will also be guests and anchors.