The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged traditional rulers in Yobe to support efforts toward the peaceful conduct of the 2027 general elections.

The appeal was made during a sensitisation campaign tagged “Elections Without Bitterness,” held at the palace of the Moi of Gudi in the Gadaka Local Government Area of the state.

The acting state director of NOA in Yobe, Maryam Shettima, said traditional institutions remained critical partners in promoting peace and stability in the electoral process.

She urged members of traditional councils to place national unity above political interests and discourage acts capable of undermining peaceful coexistence.

According to her, such acts include political thuggery, vote-buying, desperation among political actors, hate speech, and other social vices.

Ms Shettima called on traditional rulers to use their influence to sensitise their communities on the need for peaceful participation in the electoral process.

She said their support would help ensure credible, peaceful, and violence-free elections in 2027.

In his remarks, the emir of Gudi, Ismaila Kaji, commended the agency for choosing his palace for the sensitisation programme.

The emir described the campaign as timely and appreciated the Yobe government for its commitment to addressing election-related challenges.

He pledged the Gudi Emirate’s support in ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process.

The programme was attended by traditional leaders, religious leaders, security personnel, youth groups, women’s groups, and community-based organisations advocating peaceful elections.

(NAN)