JUST IN: Diaspora group invites Tinubu, Atiku, Obi others to presidential debate

Among those billed for the debate are Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigerian Peoples Party and Omoyele Sowore of the African Action Congress.

The presidential debate tagged “The Diaspora Listens” is being organised by Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians, an international group based in the United States.

Olayinka Dansalami, a spokesperson for the organisers, said that the 2023 election has brought about a patriotic clamour by Nigerians in the diaspora to have the presidential candidates talk on their manifestos while also asking questions and putting forward suggestions.

“Therefore, it has become pertinent to keep the Nigerians in the diaspora abreast of the candidates’ manifesto and what would be the policy thrusts of their administration,” he said, “how their government would maximise the various opportunities that abound in Nigeria and the key role that Nigerians in the diaspora would have to play towards national development in your administration.”

Mr Dansalami hinted that “The Debate will provide candidates with the opportunity to share their ideas in a moderated Question and Answer format.”

“The ‘Diaspora Listens’ event would also provide candidates the opportunity to hear directly from the diaspora constituents about their concerns, priorities, and what they would like from the President when elected in 2023,” Mr Dansalami stated.

Presidential elections will be held in February 2023, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission timetable. Official campaign activities will next on September 28.

Many Nigerians are hoping to elect a new leader that would proffer solutions to the myriad of problems facing the country.