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

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.

By Abdulaziz Ibrahim Hassan

The Gombe State Government has announced its partnership with the Youth O’Clock Advancement Movement Association Nigeria to organize the Maiden Edition of the Gombe Peace Dialogue, an initiative aimed at promoting religious tolerance and strengthening peace across the state.

The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Colonel Abdullahi Bello (Rtd), made this known while receiving the leadership of the movement during an advocacy visit to his office in Gombe.

Colonel Abdullahi Bello (Rtd) emphasized that Gombe State has maintained its status as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, which has significantly contributed to its progress and development, assuring that the government remains fully committed to sustaining this peaceful atmosphere through strategic collaborations and proactive security measures.

He commended Youth O’Clock Nigeria for proposing the Gombe Peace Dialogue, describing it as a vital initiative that aligns with the government’s vision of enhancing security and youth development.

According to the Commissioner, it is a source of pride to see young people from Gombe State actively engaging in progressive ideas and initiatives that focus on security, peacebuilding, and leadership development.

He assured that the government would provide the necessary support to ensure the success of the movement’s programs.

Earlier in his remarks, the Gombe State Coordinator of Youth O’Clock Nigeria, Comrade Abdulazeez Sani Labaran, stated that the visit was aimed at officially briefing the ministry on the movement’s objectives, proposed Gombe Peace Dialogue as well as discussing potential areas of collaboration to ensure lasting peace and development in Gombe State.

He highlighted that Youth O’Clock Nigeria is a movement dedicated to youth empowerment and development through strategic interventions in peace and security, education, water sanitation and hygiene, and youth empowerment.

Comrade Sani Labaran, who also serves as the Coordinator of the 36 State Coordinators, reiterated the movement’s commitment to working closely with the government and other key stakeholders to create a peaceful and progressive society.

Members of the delegation include Assistant Coordinator for Gombe North, Suleiman Umar, Coordinator Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Habiba Isah Gaude, Conventional Media Representative, Abdulaziz Ibrahim Hassan and Social Media Representative, Mustapha Danyarwa

With this partnership, Gombe State is set to take a significant step towards fostering religious harmony and security, ensuring that the peaceful coexistence the state enjoys is further strengthened for the benefit of all.