NEDG begins debate for candidates

Ahead of the October 20 governorship election in Ondo State, the Nigerian Election Debate Group (NEDG) has begun debates for governorship candidates and their running mates.
The first lap of the debate, which featured the deputy governorship candidates of the parties on Tuesday, was held at the Adegbemile Cultural Centre, Akure, the state capital.
Three candidates – Rotimi Ikewumi, of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP); Clement Tolulope, of the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN); Benedicta Ogbetor, of the National Conscience Party (NCP) – participated.
The candidates gave insight into the blueprint of their parties.
Ogbetor promised to improve the welfare of unemployed graduates and make a difference, as the only female running mate in the race.
She said NCP would provide an enabling environment for the people to live well.
Tolulope said he would generate income for the state through agricultural development and construction of a dam – to boost electricity – as well as create more local governments.
Ikewumi, who spoke in Yoruba, said ANPP already has procedures to bring a positive change to Ondo State.
He said the state must not be left in the hands of a few individuals who do not have the people at heart.
The politician urged the residents not to sell their voting rights to any politician.
The debate is powered by the NEDG in collaboration with the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Six other deputy governorship candidates will feature next in the debate.
Among them are those of the Action Congress of Nigeria AACN), Dr. Paul Akintelure; the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) counterpart, Saka Lawal; and Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, of the ruling Labour Party (LP).
It will be coordinated by the former Managing Director of Voice of Nigeria (VON) and Chairman, DAAR Communication, High Chief Raymond Dokpesi.