The Civil Society Coalition on Peace, Security and Conflict Resolution in Jigawa State has warned politicians that their individual and collective ambitions are not worth destroying the country's future. This statement was made on September 29, 2026, as the world marked the International Day of Democracy. The coalition, joined by activists and democratic vanguards, emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and responsible conduct ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The International Day of Democracy, celebrated on September 15th, aims to promote democratic principles, uphold human rights, and strengthen public participation in governance. This year's celebration comes amidst early campaigns and intense preparations for the 2027 general elections, with the political atmosphere across the country being tense and highly charged. The coalition's chairman, Comrade Musbahu Basirka, noted that democracy should unite the people, not divide them.
Basirka warned that no political ambition is worth the destruction of communities, relationships, and the future of Jigawa residents and the country as a whole. He called on political parties, leaders, candidates, and their supporters to conduct their activities peacefully, avoiding hate speech, insults, intimidation, and violence. The coalition also urged the Ulama community and religious leaders to promote peace, unity, tolerance, and respect for one another through their preaching.
The chairman appealed to the government at all levels to protect citizens, uphold fairness, and create a safe environment for democratic participation. He also called on security agencies to remain professional, impartial, and committed to protecting everyone. Basirka commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its preparations so far but called for more action in voter education, stakeholder engagement, and transparency.
The coalition appealed to traditional institutions to continue promoting peace, dialogue, unity, and peaceful coexistence among communities. They also urged media houses, especially radio stations, social media influencers, and political commentators to use their platforms responsibly, avoiding fake news, unverified information, and hate speech. Basirka stressed that political differences must never destroy brotherhood and that peace is everybody's responsibility.
A Dutse-based community activist, Haruna Sulaiman, observed that women are worst hit by political violence and urged politicians to protect the peace. He emphasized that without peace, there will be no development, and everyone will suffer. A youth activist and public affairs analyst, Barr. Bashir Sunusi, commended the coalition for its timely call and urged youths not to allow themselves to be used as political thugs.
The Civil Society Coalition on Peace, Security and Conflict Resolution reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, security, conflict prevention, and responsible democratic participation across Jigawa State. The coalition's call for peace and responsible conduct comes as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections, with a focus on promoting democratic principles and upholding human rights.
Key points
- The Jigawa coalition emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and responsible conduct ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The coalition warned politicians that their ambitions are not worth destroying the country's future.
- The chairman called on political parties and their supporters to conduct their activities peacefully, avoiding hate speech and violence.
