Politics Shouldn’t Divide Gombe: CSOs Sound Alarm Over Rising Hate Speech Ahead of Governorship Election

Politics Shouldn’t Divide Gombe: CSOs Sound Alarm Over Rising Hate Speech Ahead of Governorship Election

By Auwal Ahmad, Gombe

The Gombe Network of Civil Society Organizations (GONET) has warned that the increasing use of hate speech, online attacks and inflammatory political rhetoric by supporters of governorship aspirants could undermine the peace and unity Gombe State has enjoyed over the years.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Amb. Ibrahim Yusuf, and Secretary, Dr Benjamin Maina, the coalition expressed concern that political engagement in the state was rapidly shifting from healthy democratic competition to personal insults, cyberbullying, character assassination and dangerous incitement.

The organisation said the trend, if left unchecked, could threaten the peaceful coexistence for which Gombe, popularly known as the “Jewel in the Savannah”, is recognised.

According to GONET, elections should be fought on the strength of ideas, policies and leadership competence rather than through campaigns of hatred and misinformation.

“Politics should never become a licence for hatred. Every aspirant is a son of Gombe whose dignity deserves respect, irrespective of political affiliation. Citizens should debate policies and programmes instead of spreading abuse and false narratives,” the statement said.

The coalition warned that political violence often begins with reckless words, noting that history has repeatedly shown that inflammatory language, misinformation and sustained verbal attacks frequently precede physical violence.

It therefore urged all governorship aspirants and political leaders to publicly caution their supporters against hate speech, threats and provocative online conduct.

“True leadership is demonstrated not only by the size of one’s political following but by the discipline and restraint exhibited by supporters,” it added.

GONET also appealed to residents not to sacrifice personal relationships or divide communities over politics, reminding citizens that today’s political rivals could become tomorrow’s allies.

The group called on security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering to identify and address deliberate incitement and cyber harassment while enforcing the law professionally, impartially and without political interference.

It further urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, community leaders, civil society organisations and the media to promote issue-based campaigns and discourage extremist political narratives throughout the electoral season.

Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful elections, GONET stressed that while political offices are temporary, the people of Gombe would continue to live together after the elections.

It urged all stakeholders to allow campaigns to remain competitive without sacrificing mutual respect, expressing hope that wisdom would prevail over provocation and peace over political bitterness.