2D Button Controls?

I have a game where the entire screen in encompassed with two buttons, a left button, and a right button. Using the event system, or some other method, how could i make the buttons move an object to the left or right, depending on which button is clicked?

The way I have it currently is when the event trigger gets a pointer down a variable for movement is set to true, and when it gets pointer exit the variable is set to false. This works, but takes a second before setting the variable to true, which is devastating to the game, and also when you swipe the variable becomes stuck at true.

Note: It needs to move the instant the button is pressed.

 

the way you describe it should be instantaneous.
Post some code maybe?