By Our Correspondent

The Gombe State Police Command has debunked a viral video by a prominent cleric, Sheikh Adam Albany Gombe, describing it as misleading, inciting, and factually inaccurate. This clarification follows the ongoing investigation into a case of criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, attempted culpable homicide, and receiving stolen property.

In a statement released on April 5, 2025, and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, the Command emphasized that the investigation is well-grounded and factual, contrary to the claims made in the circulating video.

The case revolves around the arrest of two suspects:

1. Daniel Hamma, 36, of Wuro-Juli quarters, and

2. Garba Usman, also known as Mali, 32, from Local Gona village in Akko Local Government Area.

According PPRO a search conducted at the residence of the second suspect, Garba Usman, led to the recovery of key exhibits, including:

Two red motorcycles

One cutlass

Various motorcycle spare parts

Some police accouterments

Upon interrogation, both suspects reportedly confessed to their involvement in a violent armed robbery that occurred on March 1, 2025, where a victim was brutally attacked and killed at the crime scene. One of the recovered motorcycle number plates matched that of the victim’s stolen motorcycle.

The police further traced and arrested the alleged receiver of the stolen motorcycles — one Bala Danyaya, 29, of Didango in Karim Lamido LGA of Taraba State. He admitted to receiving about six motorcycles from the suspects between 2024 and 2025. Efforts to recover the stolen items are still ongoing.

However, the Command found it necessary to address what it called a dangerous claim made by Sheikh Albany Gombe in the viral video — the allegation that all the suspects are non-Muslims. DSP Abdullahi stated categorically that the second suspect, Garba Usman alias Mali, and the receiver, Bala Danyaya, are both Muslims.

The Command warned against such divisive narratives, stating that “such religiously charged misrepresentations are not only irresponsible but dangerous to societal peace.”

“Individuals, especially those with influence, must refrain from making statements capable of inciting the public or disrupting ongoing investigations,” the statement read.

The suspects are currently in lawful custody, as the charges against them are non-bailable. The police assured the public that the case would be pursued to its logical conclusion in court.

The Gombe State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, justice, and the maintenance of peace and security across the state.

For updates, follow Gombe State Police on verified platforms or visit the Command’s official information desk.

By Our Correspondent

In a passionate call during the National Police Day 2025 celebration, retired Commissioner of Police (CP) Muhammad Wakil has urged the Federal Government, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), and the Police Service Commission to prioritize the welfare of police officers across the nation. The event, organized by the Nigeria Police Force Gombe State Command, included a community outreach Stakeholders’ Town Hall Meeting held at Matrix International School, Gombe State.

CP Muhammad Wakil (rtd) emphasized the need for enhanced welfare packages, adequate equipment, and improved working conditions to enable police officers to perform their duties effectively and diligently. He stressed that adequate welfare provisions would not only motivate officers but also enhance their capacity to tackle security challenges and protect citizens.

“A well-motivated police force is key to ensuring peace and security. It is imperative that the government addresses the welfare needs of officers, including prompt payment of salaries, allowances, and access to housing, healthcare, and other essential services,” Wakil stated.

The Stakeholders’ Town Hall Meeting brought together community leaders, government officials, civil society groups, and residents to discuss pressing security issues and strengthen collaboration between the police and the public. Participants commended the police for their dedication but echoed Wakil’s concerns about inadequate welfare.

In his remarks, the Gombe State Commissioner of Police CP. Bello Yahaya expressed appreciation to the community for their continued support and assured them of the police force’s commitment to maintaining peace and security. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to foster trust, cooperation, and mutual respect between the police and the public in addressing security challenges in the state.

By Our Correspondent

Journalists and media professionals have been urged to remain vigilant against misinformation, fake news, and disinformation in their reportage. This call was made by Brigadier General Sani Usman Kukasheka (rtd.), mni, fnipr, former Director of Army Public Relations, during a one-day Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat Engagement for the first quarter of 2025 in Gombe State.

Themed “Harnessing a Whole-of-Society Approach to Enhance Information Management: National Security in Perspective,” the event aimed to strengthen collaboration between security agencies, the media, and the public in tackling information disorder and security threats.

Delivering a lecture titled “Multi-Stakeholder Approach in Dealing with Information Disorder and Security Challenges in Nigeria: The Role of Information Managers,” Brigadier General Kukasheka emphasized the growing dangers of misinformation and disinformation. He highlighted how false narratives undermine national stability and called for greater synergy between security agencies, media professionals, and the public to combat the menace.

“The role of the media in shaping public perception and national security cannot be overemphasized. Media professionals must uphold the highest standards of accuracy and objectivity to prevent the spread of falsehoods that can incite violence, create panic, or mislead citizens,” he stated.

He further stressed that a multi-stakeholder approach—involving government institutions, civil society, security agencies, and the media—was crucial in addressing the challenges posed by information disorder. According to him, responsible journalism plays a pivotal role in national development, and media practitioners must fact-check information before dissemination.

Participants at the event included representatives from various media organizations, civil society groups, and security agencies, who engaged in discussions on best practices for responsible reporting and countering fake news.

The Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Department organizes such engagements to foster better relations between the military and the media, ensuring that journalists are well-equipped to report on security matters without compromising national interest.

The call for responsible journalism and collaboration comes amid growing concerns about the role of fake news in fueling insecurity and public unrest in Nigeria. Experts at the event agreed that the fight against misinformation requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, particularly in an era where digital platforms amplify false narratives rapidly.

As Nigeria continues to battle security challenges, media professionals were encouraged to act as gatekeepers of credible information, ensuring that their reportage strengthens rather than weakens national security.