Groups set up debate for Anambra governorship candidates

Four Civil Society Organisations would conduct debate for candidates of all the political parties vying for the 2013 gubernatorial election in Anambra state, in eastern Nigeria.

The organisations are Ogilisi Igbo Foundation, Campaign for Democracy (CD), Civil Awareness and Economic Empowerment Initiative (CAEI) and Civil Liberation Initiative.

Chief Romanus Ezeonwuka, leader of the Foundation, told newsmen in a conference in Oba near Onitsha on Tuesday that the debate would be issues based and devoid of sentiments.

“This debate which will hold between September and October at the Rojenny Tourists Village, Oba, will be apolitical to address the yearnings and aspirations of Anambra people.

“The state needs front looking politicians that will continue at the pace and level of development the present administration in the state had achieved.

“It will bring out the level of awareness of the candidates on challenges facing the state and how they plan to tackle these myriad of contentious challenges in the state.

“Such challenges include: unemployment, youth restiveness, crime such as kidnapping and their plans to improve on the IGR of the state as well as other issues,’ he said.

Mr Uzor Uzor, Chairman of CD South-East Region, said the concept of the debate was to deepen democratic tenets and make the electorate hold public office holders to their words.

Uzor said that the days of `bread and butter’ politics were over in Anambra adding that “Our people now want leaders with ideas and zeal to move the state and Nigeria forward.’’

Mr Steve Ugwu, Zonal Supervisor of Civil Awareness and Economic Empowerment Initiative (CAEI), said that the debate would be covered by local, national and international media organisations.

“Responses and promises made by each candidate will be documented for record purpose while candidates who do not have anything to offer our people will be known,’’ Ugwu said.