2027: Gov Yusuf Urges Opposition Candidates to Shun Violence, Hate Speech

From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has urged opposition candidates and their supporters to conduct peaceful and issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general election.

Yusuf warned political actors against hate speech, provocative comments, character assassination, destruction of property and other actions capable of threatening peace and public order in Kano State.

The governor made the appeal in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, as political activities intensify ahead of the elections.

He said Kano had continued to enjoy relative peace and urged candidates and their supporters not to allow political differences to undermine the stability of the state.

Yusuf called on governorship candidates and their supporters to embrace peaceful and responsible campaigns by focusing on policies, programmes and ideas that could improve the lives of residents.

“Let us compete on the basis of ideas, policies, records and programmes rather than insults, intimidation or violence,” the governor said.

“The people of Kano deserve a campaign where candidates explain what they intend to do differently and how they will improve the lives of citizens.”

He urged political actors to avoid hate speech, provocation, character assassination and destruction of property, stressing that the interest of the state must remain paramount throughout the campaign period.

Yusuf also called on political party supporters to remain disciplined, respect opposing views and resist provocation that could lead to violence or disruption of public order.

The governor tasked journalists, bloggers, media influencers and social media users with verifying information before publication and avoiding fake news, rumours, misinformation and inflammatory content capable of creating tension.

He equally urged security agencies to remain professional, impartial and vigilant throughout the campaign period, while calling on political parties and campaign organisations to cooperate with security personnel and comply with lawful directives.

According to the statement, the Kano State Government will continue to discharge its responsibilities and deliver essential services to residents irrespective of political activities.

“Kano is bigger than any political party or individual. Political competition will come and go, but we will continue to live together as one people after the election,” Yusuf said.

He appealed to candidates across political parties to work collectively to protect the peace, unity and stability of the state.

The governor urged political actors to campaign with respect, compete on ideas, disagree without resorting to violence and place the interests of Kano State above partisan considerations.