The Commissioner of Police, Gombe State Command, CP Umar Chuso, has urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to reject violence, intimidation, hate speech and other forms of electoral misconduct ahead of the September 19 by-election and the 2027 general elections.
Chuso made the call on Tuesday at a joint security and peace accord with political parties and other electoral stakeholders in Gombe State.
He said political competition was an essential component of democracy but must be conducted within the bounds of the law, mutual respect and responsible political engagement.
The commissioner said, “I therefore call on all political parties, candidates and their supporters to reject political thuggery, intimidation, violence, hate speech and other forms of electoral misconduct before, during and after the elections.”
He expressed concern over the increasing use of social media to perpetrate what he described as “digital thuggery”, noting that some political actors were using online platforms to threaten opponents, spread inflammatory content, manipulate information and incite violence.
Chuso urged political actors and their supporters to exercise restraint and responsibility in their use of social media.
He said, “Do not create, promote or circulate fake news, unverified information, manipulated videos or inflammatory messages. Information capable of creating fear, tension or conflict should be verified before it is shared.”
The commissioner also urged political parties and candidates to sensitise and monitor their supporters, particularly youths, against being recruited or used to perpetrate violence.
“No political ambition is worth the life, freedom or future of any Nigerian,” he warned.
Chuso assured residents that security agencies in the state remained committed to providing a secure and enabling environment for citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
He said the security agencies would remain professional, impartial and firm in enforcing the law against individuals or groups seeking to undermine public peace.
According to him, political actors should resort to appropriate legal and constitutional mechanisms whenever disputes arise rather than resorting to self-help or violence.
“As we sign this Peace Accord today, let us make a solemn commitment to preserve the peace of Gombe State and ensure that the 2027 General Elections are conducted peacefully and responsibly,” Chuso said.
He added, “Let us compete without violence, disagree without hatred, and use technology to inform rather than inflame.
“The peace of Gombe State is our collective responsibility.”