Bala Mohammed Urges Bauchi Voters to Reject Political Violence Ahead of 2027 Elections
.......... Governor Says His Final Independence Day Address as Governor Is a Moment of Gratitude, Calls for Peace, Unity and Responsible Politics
BAUCHI — Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has urged citizens to reject political violence, ethnic and religious division ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that political ambitions must not be allowed to threaten the peace and stability of the state.
The Governor made the call in his Independence Day goodwill message to the people of Bauchi State on Thursday, October 1, 2026, to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Mohammed said democracy should be driven by ideas and constructive engagement rather than conflict, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.
He specifically appealed to youths across the state not to allow themselves to be used for political thuggery, violence or disruption of public peace.
According to him, election campaigns should be conducted with “the highest sense of decorum, maturity and mutual respect,” stressing that political parties and individual ambitions would change, but Bauchi State would remain a shared responsibility.
The Governor also called on political actors and other stakeholders to avoid exploiting ethnic, religious or sectional sentiments for political purposes.
‘Hard Times Must Not Destroy Our Hope’
Addressing the economic difficulties confronting residents, Mohammed acknowledged the pressure caused by the high cost of living and other social and economic challenges facing individuals, families and communities.
He said the difficulties should not diminish the people’s confidence in the future, urging residents to remain resilient and united.
“I sincerely appreciate the patience, resilience and perseverance of our people in the face of these challenges,” the Governor said.
He maintained that difficult circumstances should instead strengthen the determination of citizens and government to pursue solutions capable of promoting stability, opportunity and shared prosperity.
Governor Lists Administration’s Priorities
Mohammed said his administration remained focused on improving the lives of residents through investments and reforms across several sectors.
He listed infrastructure renewal, education, healthcare, agriculture, water supply, economic empowerment, urban and rural development, youth and women empowerment, institutional reform, digital transformation and improved public service delivery among the administration’s priorities.
The Governor also stressed that sustainable development could not be achieved without peace and security.
He called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, youth and women organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders to continue supporting peaceful coexistence and constructive engagement.
‘This Is My Final Independence Anniversary as Governor’
A major feature of the Governor’s message was his acknowledgement that the occasion marks the final Independence Anniversary he will commemorate with Bauchi residents in his present capacity as Governor.
“For me personally, this occasion carries an additional significance, as it is the final Independence Anniversary I will commemorate with you in my present capacity as the Governor of our dear State,” Mohammed said.
He expressed gratitude to the people of Bauchi State for their confidence, support, prayers and goodwill throughout his tenure.
The Governor also acknowledged the role of constructive criticism in shaping his administration, describing public office as a temporary and sacred trust.
“Public office is a sacred trust. It is temporary, and no individual holds it forever,” he said.
He added that the enduring measure of governance should include the institutions strengthened, opportunities created, lives touched and foundations laid for future generations.
Calls for Collective Responsibility
Mohammed said nation-building and state development should not be regarded as the sole responsibility of government.
He urged civil servants, teachers, farmers, entrepreneurs, professionals, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and young people to contribute to the development of Bauchi State and Nigeria.
He also called for greater commitment to hard work, honesty, tolerance, discipline, justice, accountability, mutual respect and patriotism.
As Nigeria marks 66 years of independence, the Governor urged citizens to renew their faith in the country and commitment to peace, unity, justice, progress and shared prosperity.
He further asked residents to continue praying and supporting the peace, stability and development of Bauchi State and Nigeria as he approaches the final phase of his tenure.
Mohammed concluded by congratulating the people of Bauchi State and Nigerians on the Independence Anniversary and prayed for the continued blessing of Bauchi State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The statement was compiled and released by the Office of the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor on October 1, 2026.