Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has urged political parties and their supporters to make peace and issue-based campaigns the foundation of their activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor made the appeal in Bauchi after returning from Abuja, where he spoke with journalists on the importance of strict compliance with electoral laws and the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He said the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), his political party, would conduct its activities within the provisions of the law and expected other political parties to demonstrate the same commitment.
Bala said political campaigns should focus on policies, programmes and ideas capable of addressing the challenges confronting citizens rather than personal attacks, intimidation and violence.
He revealed that some of his campaign posters and billboards had been vandalised by political opponents but said he had chosen to exercise restraint in the interest of peace.
The governor cautioned that his decision to remain calm should not be interpreted as weakness, noting that he would not deploy state power against political opponents because of disagreements.
He said his administration had created an enabling environment for political actors to operate freely, urging politicians not to abuse the opportunity.
“Bauchi is known for peace,” the governor said, stressing that political competition must not be allowed to destroy the peaceful coexistence among residents.
He further urged traditional rulers, security agencies and other stakeholders to remain neutral and ensure fairness throughout the electioneering period.
The governor disclosed that his administration was preparing for the 2027 campaigns and would take its message to communities across the state.
He commended political parties and their supporters for maintaining relative peace so far, urging them to sustain mutual respect and self-restraint through the election period.
