As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, a political scientist, Prof. Babayo Sule, has called on young people to reject political violence, insults and character assassination, urging them to embrace peaceful participation and issue-based campaigns.
In a public advisory addressed to the youth of Gombe State, Prof. Sule said the current political atmosphere was becoming increasingly concerning, warning that the conduct of some supporters was eroding the state’s long-standing reputation for civility and respect.
He noted that since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, Gombe had never witnessed what he described as a field of governorship aspirants with such strong credentials and leadership experience.
According to him, the leading contenders—including Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, Dr. Jamilu Isiyaku Gwamna and Dr. Bala Bello Tinka—have all served the public in various capacities and demonstrated commitment to the state’s development.
“Although no two candidates are the same and one may be considered better than another, only God knows the hearts of men, while the final decision belongs to the electorate,” he said.
Prof. Sule, however, lamented what he described as the declining political culture among some youths and politicians, saying the growing trend of online abuse, insults and personal attacks was inconsistent with the values traditionally associated with the people of Gombe.
He stressed that politics should not destroy relationships or moral values, reminding young people that political alliances often change.
According to him, politicians who appear to be rivals today may eventually work together under the same political platform, just as many had done in the past.
He also pointed out that none of the major governorship aspirants had involved their own children in political insults or abusive campaigns.
Instead, he said, their children were focused on education and preparing for future leadership roles.
The professor further stated that the outcome of the 2027 governorship election ultimately rests with God, arguing that no amount of insults, pressure or political hostility could alter divine destiny.
He warned youths against accepting money to insult or defame political opponents, saying financial rewards from politics are temporary while the consequences of harmful speech could be permanent.
“Any amount of money given to you for insulting or humiliating someone will eventually be spent. If it is not exhausted, you will one day leave it behind when you die,” he cautioned.
Prof. Sule urged Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya to intervene early and prevent political tensions from escalating.
He also appealed to governorship aspirants to fear God, respect one another and avoid encouraging actions capable of corrupting the moral upbringing of young people.
Citing Qur’an 50:18, he reminded politicians and supporters that every word spoken would be accounted for before God.
He also referenced a saying of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), which teaches that one of the major causes of a person’s punishment is the misuse of the tongue.
As part of his recommendations, Prof. Sule encouraged youths to demonstrate support for their preferred candidates by registering for their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), safeguarding them and voting peacefully on election day rather than engaging in abusive campaigns.
He advised supporters to promote their candidates by highlighting achievements, competence and policy ideas instead of attacking opponents or violating religious and moral principles.
The political scientist further urged young people to prioritise education, vocational skills, entrepreneurship and productive livelihoods over what he described as blind political followership driven by financial inducements.
He emphasised that wealth should not be placed above integrity, knowledge and faith.
Prof. Sule concluded by calling on residents of Gombe State to pray for peaceful elections and seek divine guidance in choosing leaders who would serve the state’s best interests.
“We pray that Allah bears witness to our intentions, guides us to correct our shortcomings, and grants us leaders who will bring goodness to Gombe State in this world and the hereafter,” he said.
