The Gombe Network of Civil Society Organizations (GONET) has called on Nigerians to make peace a shared responsibility as the country prepares for the 2027 elections. This appeal was made in a statement released on Monday, September 22, 2026, as part of activities marking the International Day of Peace with the theme, “Building a Culture of Peace and Harmony”. GONET emphasized the importance of peace, tolerance, dialogue, and mutual respect in promoting peaceful coexistence.
GONET, in the statement signed by its Chairman, Amb Ibrahim Yusuf, and Secretary, Dr Benjamin Maina, urged political leaders, candidates, parties, supporters, and citizens to create a peaceful atmosphere during the election period. The organization stressed that political competition should not lead to hatred, violence, or intimidation. Instead, it encouraged issue-based dialogue and respect for political differences.
The organization particularly called on citizens to respect one another, regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, religion, or social status. GONET emphasized that Nigerians' shared identity and collective interest in a peaceful and prosperous society must be stronger than their differences. This, it believes, will promote a culture of peace and harmony.
GONET also urged parents, community leaders, teachers, and the media to promote messages of peace and discourage hate speech, misinformation, and inflammatory rhetoric. The organization believes that this will help create a peaceful atmosphere during the election period. It also encouraged everyone to participate peacefully and respect the rights of others.
According to GONET, elections are a process of choosing leaders, not a battle against fellow citizens. The organization encouraged Nigerians to resolve disagreements through dialogue and lawful democratic mechanisms. It also urged citizens to choose peace over provocation and dialogue over confrontation.
GONET has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence, inclusive governance, and human rights across Gombe State and Nigeria. The organization believes that Nigeria can only be built when its citizens learn to live together despite their differences. It concluded by urging Nigerians to live together, respect one another, and build Nigeria together.
The appeal by GONET comes as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, which is expected to be a critical period of political campaigns. The organization's call for peace and harmony is seen as a timely reminder to Nigerians of the importance of promoting peaceful coexistence.
Key points
- GONET urges Nigerians to make peace a shared responsibility ahead of the 2027 elections.
- The organization emphasizes the importance of issue-based dialogue and respect for political differences.
- GONET encourages citizens to promote messages of peace and discourage hate speech.
