The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has unveiled plans to organise a multi-office political debate for candidates contesting various elective positions in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The debate is scheduled to hold from Wednesday, December 9 to Friday, December 11, 2026, at the NUJ Press Centre in Uyo. The official logo and brand for the 2027 Election Debate were formally presented at a media briefing held at the same venue on Tuesday, 18th August 2026.
The initiative is designed to provide a credible and inclusive platform for candidates across political parties to present their programmes, policies and vision to the people of Akwa Ibom. Unlike previous exercises that focused mainly on the governorship race, the 2027 edition will accommodate candidates seeking election into the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate and the Office of the Governor.
Briefing media professionals, the Chairman of the NUJ Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, explained that the decision to expand the scope of the debate was driven by the responsibility of the media to promote accountability and ensure that political office seekers clearly communicate their intentions to the electorate before elections and remain accountable after assuming office.
He stressed that the media has a critical role in setting an agenda that reflects the aspirations and concerns of the majority of the people, while providing citizens with the information they need to make informed electoral choices.
In his remarks, Comrade John appealed directly to journalists and media practitioners to support the initiative. “It is significant upon us, as gentlemen of the press, as those in the media sector, to please do everything within your honest ability to promote this initiative,” he said. He acknowledged that the committee is working with limited funds but described the project as an important contribution to effective journalism in Akwa Ibom State.
The Chairman further noted that the success of the debate would be a source of pride for the Union. “At the end of the day, it would be a thing of joy that the debate will be adjudged as successful. When that is achieved, it will be safe for us to say that indeed, in our time as journalists, we were able to set an agenda that was adopted and appreciated by the vast majority of our people,” he added.
Comrade John recalled that a similar debate was organised ahead of the 2023 general elections under the leadership of former Council Chairman, Comrade Amos Etuk, with Comrade Aniekan Udofia heading the debate committee at the time. He said the 2027 edition would build on the lessons and experience of that earlier exercise.
Chairman of the 2027 Debate Committee, Comrade Ndanti Ekuh, disclosed the detailed schedule for the three-day programme. The debate will commence with the governorship session on Wednesday, December 9, followed by sessions for candidates contesting other offices, and will culminate in the senatorial debate on Friday, December 11.
The Conference of Online Publishers in Akwa Ibom State (COOPA), which had earlier pledged its support and partnership for the success of the initiative, is expected to play a role in promoting the debate and ensuring wider public participation.
The committee intends to invite every serious candidate and will manage stakeholder interests through formal communication channels. Organisers have emphasised orderly preparation and professional conduct throughout the process.
The sessions are expected to focus on issues of direct relevance to the people of Akwa Ibom, allowing candidates to articulate their positions and respond to questions that will help the electorate assess their competence, programmes and understanding of the challenges facing the state.
