Gombe Civil Society Coalition Urges Peaceful Campaigns, Raises Concern Over Political Conduct

The Gombe State Coalition of Political Civil Societies and Association has expressed concern over recent political developments in the state, urging political actors to conduct issue-based campaigns and avoid actions capable of threatening peace and unity.

In a statement signed by its Acting Chairman, Hon. Hamza Ahmad Bello, the coalition said it had reviewed the activities of political parties and candidates ahead of the forthcoming governorship election, with particular attention to the recent engagements of the PDP governorship candidate, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, in Dukku Local Government Area and parts of the Gombe metropolis.

The coalition said it strongly condemned any conduct, utterance or political engagement capable of creating tension, promoting division, provoking hostility or undermining the peaceful coexistence that had characterised Gombe State over the years.

It noted that while every political candidate has the constitutional right to campaign, mobilise supporters and present programmes to the electorate, such rights should be exercised responsibly and in accordance with the Constitution, electoral laws and established principles of peaceful political engagement.

The group called on Prof. Pantami and other governorship candidates, political parties and their supporters to demonstrate restraint, tolerance and respect for democratic institutions, stressing that campaigns should focus on policies, programmes and development rather than inflammatory rhetoric.

The coalition also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to monitor the activities of all political parties impartially and ensure compliance with electoral laws and public order.

According to the coalition, it will not support or tolerate any individual or group whose actions could endanger public peace or undermine the unity of the state, adding that the collective interest of Gombe State must take precedence over individual political ambitions.

It further appealed to all political actors and their supporters to avoid inflammatory language, respect opposing views, uphold the rule of law and promote peaceful, issue-based campaigns.

“Politics is not war. Gombe State must remain peaceful, united and progressive before, during and after every political contest,” the statement added.