Gombe State Police Initiates Peace Accord for By-Election

On September 15, political parties and candidates in Gombe State signed a peace accord in preparation for the House of Representatives by-election in the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency. The accord, initiated by the Gombe State Police Command, aims to promote peaceful campaigns and adherence to the law while rejecting violence, thuggery, intimidation, hate speech, and fake news that could disrupt the electoral process.

Commissioner of Police Ahmed Usman Chuso emphasized that political power should not be viewed as a do-or-die affair and warned against exploiting religious and ethnic sentiments. He expressed concern over the rise of "digital thuggery" on social media, which includes the spread of fake news and inflammatory content.

Aliko Mohammed Bularafa, representing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stated that peace is essential for meaningful democratic participation. The accord also mandates political parties to notify security agencies 48 hours before any political gatherings.