Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has urged political parties and their candidates to embody sportsmanship in the 2023 general election.
He made the call on Saturday in Bauchi at the swearing-in ceremony of the two newly appointed commissioners and Caretaker Committee Chairmen of the 20 local government areas of the state.
The governor said it was imperative for all and sundry to show decorum and shun acts inimical to the democratic principle.
“The 2023 general election is fast approaching and electioneering campaigns are in full gear.
“I, therefore, appeal to all political parties and their supporters to conduct themselves in an orderly manner, eschew thuggery and malpractices,” he said.
The governor charged the local government administrations to provide political spaces for the opposition to operate freely without any hinderance.
“This is the mark of democracy,” Mohammed said, stressing that the rule of the game must be clearly adhered by political parties.
He warned that anyone found wanting would incur the wrath of the law, and urged security agencies to be vigilant and apprehend those found to be engaged in unwholesome activities.
The governor also tasked the appointed officials to be transparent and carry everybody along in the administration.
“Let me warn all new appointees that this administration has no place for corrupt, disloyal, indolent and incompetent officials.
“You should be absolutely loyal to the state and totally committed to its objectives.
“For the avoidance of doubt, let me clearly state that I will not hesitate to remove any official found wanting or disloyal to government of the day,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the two new commissioners are Jamila Dahiru and Amina Katagum.
The development was sequel to resignation of former Commissioners for Education, Rural Development and Special Duties, Dr Aliyu Tilde and Abdullahi Musa, respectively.
NAN
