By Rayyanu Bala

Democracy, from every angle we look at it, provides a modern system of government that ensures checks and balances among the three arms of government. Beyond that, democracy is a system in which people have the right to choose their leaders; it is, indeed, a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. However, what has made many people become disillusioned with this form of government is the way we, especially in the developing world, practice it.
In Nigeria, and in Nasarawa State in particular, we often view democracy from the wrong perspective. We see it as a platform for insults, bitterness, and political rivalry rather than constructive engagement. Therefore, Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada’s appeal to his supporters yesterday at his Polo ranch in Keffi, deserves not only our attention but also our thoughtful consideration.
As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, Wadada made a simple yet significant request. He urged his supporters not to respond with insults to anyone who attacks him or attack them. Instead, he encouraged them to remain focused on governance, development, and the issues that truly matter to the people.
Although Wadada’s appeal may seem like a simple request, it addresses a much deeper problem in Nigerian politics.
Election seasons, like the one we are gradually entering, are often characterized by divisions on social media, campaign grounds, and within communities. Personal attacks, name-calling, and unnecessary hostility frequently dominate political discourse. In many cases, supporters become even more aggressive than the politicians they defend. Political disagreements quickly turn into personal battles, creating a toxic atmosphere where meaningful discussions about education, healthcare, infrastructure, employment, and security are pushed aside.
Wadada’s message presents a different approach. Rather than encouraging his supporters to engage in verbal warfare, he is asking them to allow his record, ideas, and plans to speak for him. The principle behind his appeal for restraint is one that deserves commendation.
Politics should be a contest of ideas, not a competition of insults.
When candidates challenge one another with facts, sound policy proposals, and proven achievements, voters are better positioned to make informed choices. However, when campaigns are dominated by abuse and character assassination, everyone loses—especially the electorate, who deserve clear answers about how their lives will improve.
Of course, while writing this, I fully understand that asking supporters not to retaliate is easier said than done. Political emotions often run high, and many people feel compelled to defend the candidates they admire. Nevertheless, restraint is a mark of political maturity. Responding to insults with more insults only deepens divisions and distracts from the real issues that affect the people.
Senator Wadada on the other hand however, encourages his supporters to demand a clear blueprint for governance and to subject the records of every politician to public scrutiny. Ultimately, that is where every political campaign should place its focus. Elections should be won by convincing the people through ideas and performance, not by shouting down opponents.
As the countdown to the 2027 elections continues, every political actor, not just one candidate, has a responsibility to lower the political temperature. Respectful campaigns may not eliminate disagreements, but they can create room for healthier debates and issue-based politics.
If more politicians consistently encouraged civility in the same way Senator Wadada is encouraging his supporters, Nigeria’s democratic discourse would become richer, more productive, and far less hostile. At this critical moment, Wadada’s message is one worth promoting, regardless of political interests or party affiliations.