2027: INEC must ensure electoral debates take place – Utomi

Political economist Professor Pat Utomi is calling on Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to make electoral debates a mandatory part of the country's election process. Utomi argues that these debates are crucial for voters to gain a clear understanding of candidates' competence, preparedness, and overall character.

“

I think that the effort must be made to encourage the signing of a peace accord, that tradition continues because it, in many ways, tells the electorate about the attitude of the candidates.

Speaking in an interview with Arise News, Utomi emphasized the importance of continuing the tradition of encouraging candidates to sign peace accords. He believes this practice helps voters assess the candidates' attitudes, which is vital when seeking public office. "When the candidates take the people for granted, it comes through, beginning from that whole peace accord platform," he stated.

Utomi considers political debates "so, so very important," recalling the 1993 presidential election. He asserted that the debate between MKO Abiola and Bashir Tofa significantly swayed voters. "I can tell you without any equivocation, in 1993, what made the swing completely towards Abiola away from Tofa was the debate," he said.

“

I can tell you without any equivocation, in 1993, what made the swing completely towards Abiola away from Tofa was the debate.

He further explained that debates allow Nigerians to evaluate candidates beyond their campaign promises by observing their demeanor, confidence, and ability to connect with the electorate. Utomi suggested that Nigeria should not only maintain but also increase the frequency of debates, proposing one per month leading up to election day. He believes well-prepared candidates would have no reason to avoid such platforms, while those who are unprepared or lack knowledge would likely shy away.

“

So debates are very important. I would even insist that we have one every month from now till election day because it gives deep insights into the candidates.