The Akwa Ibom State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, on Tuesday unveiled the program for the 2027 election debate in the state.
The debate is to enable candidates explain their policy direction and developmental plans to the electorate.
Unveiling the initiative at the NUJ Secretariat, Information Drive, Uyo, the Council Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, noted that the exercise is in line with the agenda setting mandate of the media.
While calling for a transparent and unbiased process, he charged the election debate committee to desist from any element of bias.
John also urged journalists in the state to promote the initiative.
He said, “We are doing this as part of our contribution to effective journalism work in Akwa Ibom State. As you know, those in charge of the committee are members of the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council and it will be a thing of joy and pride that at the end of the day, the debate is adjudged highly successful.
“When that is achieved it will be safe for us to say that in our time as journalists, we were able to set an agenda that is adopted and appreciated by the vast majority of Akwa Ibom people. Please do everything within your ability to promote this initiative.”
The Akwa Ibom NUJ chairman assured that the exercise would be conducted in a manner that both the organisers and the the participants would enjoy full benefits of the professionalism and unbiased nature of journalists in the state.
Responding, the chairman of the committee, Ndanti Ekuh, called on journalists to support the initiative, adding that the exercise would enable candidates to explain their policy direction, developmental plans and previous records to the electorate.
He stressed that democratic leadership requires accountability and meaningful engagement with the electorate, noting that candidates seeking public office must be prepared to clearly communicate their vision and plans for governance.
While noting that the debate will take place from December 9th to 11th, 2026, with candidates of all the political parties participating, Ekuk said the initiative is part of the NUJ’s commitment to promoting issue-based political campaigns, accountable leadership and democratic participation ahead of the 2027 elections.