The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has begun preparations for a 2027 election debate designed to help voters scrutinise candidates and their policy proposals before casting their ballots.
The council has constituted a five-member committee to organise the debate, which is expected to bring candidates before the electorate to explain their programmes, policies, vision, competence and capacity.
Olayinka Agboola is chairman of the committee, while Oluseye Ojo will serve as secretary.
Other members are Oyebukola Oriowo, Omolola Alamu and Olusoji Ajibola.
In a statement signed by the council’s Chairman, Akeem Abas, and Secretary, Temidayo Adu, the NUJ tasked the committee with working with relevant stakeholders to develop a credible framework for the successful organisation of the debate.
The council said details concerning the date, venue, format, participating candidates and other arrangements would be made public as preparations advance.
According to the NUJ, the debate is intended to promote issue-based political engagement and strengthen democratic governance in Oyo State.
It said placing candidates side by side would allow voters to compare their ideas, programmes and capacity, rather than relying solely on campaign promises and political messaging.
The union also called on political parties, candidates, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support the initiative.
It said the debate would provide voters with useful information needed to make informed choices while encouraging greater participation in the 2027 electoral process.
The initiative comes as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually gather momentum, with parties and prospective candidates expected to intensify their engagements with voters in the months ahead.
