Nigerians in the United Kingdom have tasked candidates of political parties on the need to engage with the citizens on their manifestos if elected into office.

Daddy Kris, a Nigerian based in London, said in a telephone interview that Nigerians in UK were eager to engage candidates for the 2023 general elections to know what they have in stock if elected into office.

Mr Kris, who is the founder of Superior Radio and Television (SRTV), said that the yearnings for engagement was what led to organisation of a virtual town hall meeting scheduled to begin on December 27.

“We have a candidate who is a serving House of Representatives member from Ethiope Federal Constituency of Delta State, Ben Igbakpa, coming to interact with the people on his election programme,” he said.

Mr Kris said the constant demand by Nigerians for good governance and good leaders will be the defining factors in the country during the 2023 elections.

“It is on this notion that SRTV London in partnership with individuals, various platforms and organisations came up with town hall meetings.

“As the name implies, it is an avenue for our host, candidates, party representatives or supporters come virtually to discuss their manifestos.

“The importance of the town hall meeting cannot be far fetched as it will help foster unity and healthy competition among flag bearers, political parties and party members.

“It will help the political parties to inform and educate Nigerians on their programmes and also hear from the average Nigerians on what their expectations are ahead of the elections.

“It is also expected to build a true sportsmanship among the candidates of various political parties and discourage politicians from being desperate,” Mr Kris said.

He added that various Nigerian associations, town unions, socio-cultural groups and individuals in UK have declared their interest to participate in the virtual town hall meetings.

(NAN)