By CHIDI NKWOPARA
OWERRI — The debate being organized by Imo State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, for candidates of the various registered political parties will commence with the governorship candidates on March 3, 2011, at Imo Concorde Hotel, Owerri.

According to a press release signed by the Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Mr. Innocent Igwe, the gubernatorial debate will be closely followed by the senatorial debate for those running for the three senatorial seats in the state.

He said: “The federal constituency debate for candidates seeking election into the House of Representatives will follow later.”

The NUJ also reminded all the candidates running for the different elective positions that participation in the debate is indispensable as it would be carried live by all the radio and television stations in the state simultaneously.

Imo NUJ also reasoned that the debate would provide the best platform for all the candidates to market themselves to the electorate.

“As the first of its kind in the history of Imo State, Imo NUJ political debate promises to remain a positive reference point where the highest possible standard associated with such a crucial activity in terms of equal treatment, fairness and neutrality are guaranteed,” Igwe stated.

He passionately appealed to corporate bodies, institutions and interested organizations to support the noble effort to ensure credible elections in the state.