Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has called on political actors to prioritize peace and accept electoral outcomes in good faith, warning against treating Elections as a do-or-die affair.
Mohammed made the appeal on Saturday after casting his vote at Polling Unit 008, Bakin Dutse, located at Yelwan Duguri Model Primary School in Duguri District of Alkaleri Local Government Area, during the ongoing local government elections in the state.
Speaking to journalists, the governor expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the exercise, noting the large turnout of voters, particularly women. He described the participation as heartening and a demonstration of citizens exercising their constitutional rights.
“Elections are not a do-or-die affair,” Mohammed said. “Our topmost concern should always be ensuring lasting peace, safety, and overall progress in Bauchi State.”
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic processes at the grassroots level and ensuring compliance with electoral laws. He commended election officials for their preparedness and thanked voters for displaying maturity, discipline, and a strong sense of civic duty throughout the process.
The local government polls are being conducted across the state’s 20 local government areas under the supervision of the Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission. Security agencies have been deployed to maintain order, with reports indicating a generally peaceful atmosphere in most voting centers.
Observers say the governor’s remarks reflect a broader push to reduce political tension in off-cycle elections, where competition for control of local councils often triggers violence. His emphasis on women’s participation also aligns with ongoing efforts to deepen inclusive governance in northern Nigeria.
Results from the elections are expected to be announced in the coming days. The outcome will determine the leadership of local councils for the next tenure, with implications for service delivery and political alignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
