The Gombe State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has criticised Hausa political musician Dauda Kahutu Rarara over what it described as offensive remarks directed at the party’s governorship candidate, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami.
The party said the comments, contained in a recently released song by the singer, were defamatory, disrespectful and intended to erode the principles of decency and constructive democratic discourse.
This position was contained in a statement issued by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Abdulkadir Ahmad Dukku, who argued that political disagreements should not be used as justification for attacking the personality or reputation of public figures.
The statement noted that Prof. Pantami, whom it described as an Islamic scholar and professor with international recognition, should be accorded dignity and respect irrespective of political affiliation.
“The song is defamatory and a disgrace to the nation’s cultural values and democratic ideals. Public figures deserve respect, and their dignity should be protected,” the statement read.
The PDP further alleged that Rarara had a record of making disparaging remarks against notable political figures, including the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
According to the party, the singer’s latest comments may have been prompted by its earlier criticism of the Gombe State Government over the reported donation of vehicles, plots of land and cash worth more than N200 million to the musician.
The opposition party insisted that it still views the reported gifts as an unjustifiable expenditure of public resources.
While recognising the contribution of artists and entertainers to political mobilisation and civic participation, the PDP cautioned against using musicians and praise singers to launch personal attacks or heighten political tension.
“It is unfortunate when artists allow themselves to be used to settle political scores instead of promoting peace, unity, and social cohesion,” the statement added.
The party also urged political leaders, regardless of party affiliation, to prevail on their supporters and associates to refrain from making statements capable of insulting political opponents or worsening divisions within society.
It maintained that campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections should focus on issues, policies and programmes rather than personal attacks and character assassination, calling on all political stakeholders to uphold civility, respect and healthy democratic engagement.
