The Gombe State Coalition of Political Civil Societies and Association has expressed concern over what it described as the conduct and political approach of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, urging all political actors in the state to embrace peaceful and issue-based campaigns ahead of the next political contest.
In a statement signed by its Acting Chairman, Hon. Hamza Ahmad Bello, the coalition said it had reviewed recent political developments in the state, particularly the activities and public engagements of candidates and political stakeholders.
The group specifically drew attention to Pantami’s recent visit to Dukku Local Government Area and other political engagements within Gombe metropolis, alleging that some of his actions and remarks were capable of creating tension, promoting division and undermining the state’s long-standing peace and unity.
According to the coalition, Gombe has built a reputation for peaceful political engagement, mutual respect and harmonious coexistence, warning that no political actor should introduce practices capable of threatening the stability of the state.
It acknowledged that every candidate has the constitutional right to campaign, mobilise supporters and present programmes to the electorate, but stressed that such rights must be exercised responsibly and in accordance with electoral laws and accepted standards of political conduct.
The coalition called on Prof. Pantami and other governorship candidates, political parties and their leaders to demonstrate restraint, tolerance and respect throughout the campaign period.
It urged politicians to focus on presenting policies, development plans and programmes rather than engaging in actions or rhetoric that could heighten political tension or erode public confidence in the electoral process.
The association also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and civil society organisations to impartially monitor the activities of all political parties, including the APC, PDP, ADC and other registered parties, to ensure compliance with electoral laws and campaign regulations.
The coalition further warned that it would not support or tolerate any individual or group whose actions could endanger public peace or destabilise the unity of Gombe State.
It maintained that the interest of Gombe State should take precedence over personal or partisan ambitions, urging all political actors and their supporters to avoid inflammatory language, respect opposing views and promote peaceful, issue-based campaigns.
The statement concluded by emphasising that politics should not be treated as a conflict, insisting that Gombe State must remain peaceful, united and progressive before, during and after the election.
