Prince Dọtun Oyelade, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, has called on the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) to blacklist political candidates who refuse to participate in public debates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an engagement with the NUJ Oyo State Council, Oyelade argued that candidates who avoid public scrutiny through debates are denying the electorate the opportunity to make informed decisions. He suggested that the media should play a proactive role in identifying and marking aspirants who shy away from such intellectual engagement.
The Commissioner noted that the ability of a candidate to defend their policy proposals under questioning is a fundamental requirement for effective leadership in a democracy. He expressed concern that the recurring habit of candidates avoiding structured debates continues to weaken the quality of political discourse throughout Nigeria.
Promoting transparency in the 2027 elections
Oyelade suggested that the NUJ, as a watchdog of the press, possesses the influence to shape public perception by pointing out the refusal of certain aspirants to engage with the pressing issues facing the nation. He stated that blacklisting these candidates would serve as a mechanism for accountability.
According to the Commissioner, publicising the names of those who evade debates would create a reputation cost for politicians. He argued that if the media documents these absences, voters will be better equipped to judge the transparency and readiness of any candidate seeking public office.
Historically, Nigerian elections have often lacked the structured, televised debates common in many other democratic nations. This absence frequently leaves voters to rely on party manifestos and political rallies, which may lack the depth required to evaluate a candidate’s specific plans for governance or their ability to handle complex crises.
The proposal comes as political preparations for the 2027 cycle begin to take shape across various states. By urging the NUJ to adopt this stance, the Oyo State Commissioner is seeking a shift from personality-driven politics to more policy-driven engagement between candidates and the public.
The NUJ Oyo State Council has not yet confirmed whether it will implement a formal mechanism to track and blacklist candidates who decline debate invitations.
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