The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has taken another step towards its planned 2027 election debate with the constitution of a five-member committee to organise the programme.
The committee is expected to create a platform where candidates can move beyond campaign slogans and present their programmes, policies and vision directly to the electorate.
Mr Olayinka Agboola will chair the committee, while Mr Oluseye Ojo will serve as secretary.
Other members are Mrs Oyebukola Oriowo, Mrs Omolola Alamu and Mr Olusoji Ajibola.
In a statement signed by the NUJ Oyo State Chairman, Mr Akeem Abas, and Secretary, Temidayo Adu, the council charged the committee to work closely with relevant stakeholders and develop a credible framework for the successful organisation of the debate.
The council said the debate would provide an opportunity for candidates to place their ideas and programmes side by side, allowing voters to make informed comparisons before deciding who deserves their support.
It said the initiative would focus attention on issues that matter to the people while giving candidates an opportunity to demonstrate their competence, capacity and preparedness for public office.
The NUJ said details of the date, venue, format and participating candidates, among other arrangements, would be announced as preparations progress.
The union also called on political parties, candidates, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support the initiative and contribute to its success.
According to the council, the debate is part of its broader efforts to strengthen democratic governance and promote meaningful, issue-based political engagement in Oyo State.
The union said voters deserve access to useful information about those seeking their mandate, adding that informed citizens are better positioned to participate meaningfully in the electoral process.
With the 2027 elections approaching, the proposed debate is expected to give Oyo voters an opportunity to hear directly from candidates, examine their plans and judge them beyond party colours and campaign rhetoric.
