GOMBE — The Gombe State Coalition of Political Civil Societies and Association has called on political parties and candidates contesting the forthcoming governorship election to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns, while expressing concern over what it described as actions and utterances capable of heightening political tension in the state.

In a statement signed by its Acting Chairman, Hon. Hamza Ahmad Bello, the coalition said it had been monitoring political activities across the state and raised concerns over recent political engagements by some candidates, alleging that certain conduct and public statements were capable of creating political tension, promoting division and undermining the state’s tradition of peaceful coexistence.

The coalition, however, did not identify any individual or provide specific details of the alleged actions or statements.

It stressed that Gombe had maintained a political culture rooted in mutual respect, tolerance and responsible political engagement, urging all political actors not to engage in activities capable of threatening the state’s unity and stability.

According to the group, while every candidate has the constitutional right to campaign and canvass support, such rights should be exercised in line with the Constitution, electoral laws and established standards of peaceful political conduct.

The coalition called on all governorship candidates and political party leaders to demonstrate restraint, tolerance and respect for the people and institutions of the state.

It urged political actors to focus their campaigns on policies, programmes and development plans rather than rhetoric or actions that could generate tension or erode public confidence in the electoral process.

The group also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and civil society organisations to monitor the activities of all political parties and candidates impartially to ensure compliance with electoral laws and campaign regulations.

Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful elections, the coalition said it would not support any individual or group whose actions could endanger public peace or undermine the unity of Gombe State.

It further urged politicians and their supporters to avoid inflammatory language, respect opposing views and uphold the rule of law throughout the electioneering period, insisting that political competition should remain peaceful and development-oriented.