Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has declared Monday, August 17, 2026, a work-free day to enable workers across the state to participate in the upcoming local government council elections. The declaration applies to civil servants and public employees at the state, local government, and federal levels, as well as banking sector staff based in Bauchi State.
According to reports from Vanguard, workers providing essential services are not covered by the declaration and are expected to remain on duty. The decision follows the official fixing of August 17 as the election date by the Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission (BASIEC).
Reason Behind the Work-Free Day
The state government explained that the work-free day is intended to remove any conflict between official duties and the right of eligible citizens to cast their votes at the grassroots level. Officials stated that the move reflects the government's commitment to supporting democratic participation locally, giving workers the freedom to exercise their constitutional right without interruption from work obligations.
Governor Mohammed urged residents and citizens to turn out peacefully and vote in line with the law. He called on eligible voters to maintain responsible behaviour before, during, and after the elections. The governor also assured citizens that relevant authorities would take steps to ensure a calm and orderly environment on election day.
Appeal for Cooperation and Peaceful Voting
The governor appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies and electoral officials as they carry out their duties. He extended goodwill to the people of Bauchi State, wishing them a peaceful and successful local government council election.
The work-free day covers civil servants, public workers, and banking sector employees at state, local, and federal levels in Bauchi. Workers in essential services are exempted, while citizens are urged to vote peacefully and responsibly.
