The Akwa Ibom State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, has unveiled plans for an election debate aimed at providing candidates seeking elective offices in the state an opportunity to present their policies, development agenda and governance plans ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The initiative was unveiled on Tuesday at the NUJ Secretariat along Information Drive in Uyo.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom NUJ Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, said the debate forms part of the media’s agenda setting responsibility and would help promote informed political participation among residents.
John called for a transparent and impartial process, urging members of the election debate committee to avoid every form of bias.
He also appealed to journalists across the state to support and promote the initiative.
“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 NUJ chairman assured that the debate would be conducted professionally and without bias, allowing both organisers and participants to benefit from the credibility and professionalism of journalists in the state.
Responding, the Chairman of the Election Debate Committee, Ndanti Ekuh, called on journalists to support the programme, noting that it would provide candidates with an avenue to explain their policy direction, development plans and previous records to the electorate.
He said democratic leadership requires accountability and meaningful engagement with the people, stressing that those seeking public office must be prepared to clearly communicate their vision and plans for governance.
Ekuh disclosed that the debate would hold from December 9 to 11, 2026, and would feature candidates from all participating political parties.
He added that the initiative reflects the NUJ’s commitment to promoting issue based campaigns, accountable leadership and stronger democratic participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The debate is scheduled for December 9–11, 2026, and its value will depend on whether all participating parties receive equal opportunities to present and defend their policies before voters.
