Gwamna Asks IGP to Probe Alleged Cyberbullying, Criminal Defamation Ahead of Gombe 2027 Race

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Gombe State, Dr. Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna, has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) over an alleged coordinated campaign of cyberbullying, criminal defamation and the dissemination of fake news aimed at damaging his reputation ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

Sources familiar with the petition said Dr. Gwamna requested an immediate investigation by the Nigeria Police National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC), with the involvement of INTERPOL, following intelligence reports indicating that some of those allegedly responsible for the online attacks may be operating from outside Nigeria.

According to the sources, the petition identifies several social media accounts accused of circulating false claims that the APC governorship candidate had been arrested and detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Dr. Gwamna reportedly described the allegations as entirely false and malicious.

The petition further alleges that the publications form part of a coordinated disinformation campaign intended to mislead the public, tarnish his reputation and influence public perception as political activities ahead of the 2027 governorship election gather momentum.

Sources added that Dr. Gwamna urged the police to obtain subscriber information, IP logs and other digital evidence from Meta Platforms to identify those behind the alleged campaign. He also requested that the sponsors and financiers be prosecuted, where appropriate, and that the disputed publications be taken down.

Political observers say the development reflects the growing intensity of the contest for the 2027 governorship election in Gombe State.

According to analysts, Dr. Gwamna’s emergence as a leading contender has reshaped the state’s political landscape, with his expanding support base attracting increased attention from political rivals.

Some observers argue that rather than focusing on policy debates and governance issues, certain political actors have resorted to misinformation, character attacks and cyberbullying in an attempt to undermine his growing popularity.

Supporters of the APC candidate expressed confidence that the police investigation would uncover those responsible for the alleged smear campaign, insisting that voters would ultimately assess candidates based on their competence, integrity and vision for Gombe State.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Nigeria Police Force nor the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had issued an official statement on the petition.

This version is written in a neutral, professional news style suitable for publication while clearly attributing allegations to the petitioner and sources rather than presenting them as established facts.