2019 POLL: OGUN JOURNALISTS KICK-STARTS POLITICAL DEBATE

He said, the debate which is the initiative of the Council was aimed at enhancing an informed decision of the electorates in the State towards electing candidates of their choice that are capable of delivering robust governance for the socio-economic development of the State.

‘By doing this, we as members of the fourth estate of the realm again assumed our crucial role of being the bridge between the government and the governed, and of course as part of our social responsibility to the society’.

‘You will recall that our similar outing in 2015 was a huge success as its attendant free, fair and peaceful process has continued to remain the hallmark of other efforts that followed. We wish to boldly state that we are prepared not to drop the ball for this year”s edition’,Ogunyinka boasted.

Penpushing further reports that, the committee chairman pointed out that, before now, the council had written  to all political parties operating in the State, informed them and solicited their participation and support.

‘As a matter of fact, we have made it clear to all, that part of our objectives for the debate was to provide a platform for dialogue among their candidates and the State electorates, with a view to ensuring massive participation and informed decisions’.

‘Equally, by our visit and robust discuss with almost all the State Security outfits, it is evident that this occasion, would also stand out as most peaceful, orderly and unique in terms of process and results. Consequently, we implore all stakeholders involved to remain law abiding, as their security is guaranteed throughout the entire process’.

‘The first leg of the debates therefore comes up on Friday, 1st February at the Nigerian Union of Journalists Hall, Iwe Irohin fielding the Ogun Central House of Representatives and the Senate Candidates. The debate starts by 10am prompt’.

 Penpushing also reports that, Ogunyinka declared that, the attendance is strictly by invitation ‘as invited members of the audience are expected to come along with the appropriate invitation “pass” as they are to be seated 30 minutes to the commencement of the debate’.

The committee also advised motorists plying the route around the period,  to promptly obey the traffic orders,  ‘as only candidates” official Vehicles would be allowed inside the premises along with the identified debate officials, who must produce their tags’.

‘More important, only members of the participating political parties who have been issued “Pass” would be allowed into the venue as there would be strict restrictions around the venue.  Meanwhile, every attending personality is expected to remain law abiding’ he emphasised.

The union called on members that,’ with deep sense of respect and call for professionalism, we plead that every one of us, should rise up to the occasion as we give the event maximum coverage that it deserves, particularly in the spirit of peaceful and developmental journalism’.

‘To the participants, please note that the interest of the State is paramount. We crave your indulgence to exercise decorum and play by the rules as we promote the culture of tolerance and understanding together’, the statement stressed.

‘It is pertinent to appreciate all the media stations in the State, along with our compatriot colleagues that are prepared to give mileage coverage of the events. To all the rank and file of the State security outfits and other related traffic networks, we appreciate your support at all times’.