By Ibrahim Shawai
The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Gombe State, Dr. Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna, has reportedly petitioned the Inspector-General of Police over an alleged coordinated campaign of cyberbullying, criminal defamation and fake news aimed at damaging his reputation ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Gwamna Seeks Police Cybercrime Investigation
Highly placed sources familiar with the petition disclosed that Gwamna requested an immediate investigation by the Nigeria Police National Cybercrime Centre, with the involvement of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL).
According to the sources, the request followed intelligence suggesting that some individuals allegedly behind the online attacks may be operating from outside Nigeria.
The petition reportedly names several social media accounts accused of circulating claims that the APC governorship candidate had been arrested and detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Gwamna has categorically denied the allegations.
Petition Seeks Identification of Alleged Sponsors
The petition reportedly describes the publications as part of what Gwamna considers a coordinated disinformation campaign intended to mislead the public, damage his reputation and influence public perception ahead of the 2027 election.
Sources said the APC candidate has urged the police to obtain subscriber information, IP logs and other relevant digital evidence from Meta Platforms to identify those allegedly responsible for the publications.
The petition also reportedly seeks the prosecution of individuals found culpable and the removal of the alleged offending publications from social media platforms.
Gombe 2027 Contest Generates Political Tensions
The development comes as political activities ahead of the 2027 governorship election gather momentum in Gombe State.
Political observers believe the reported petition highlights the growing influence of social media in political campaigns and the increasing concerns over misinformation and online attacks during election periods.
Supporters of Gwamna have expressed confidence that the investigation, if undertaken, could help identify those behind what they describe as an organised smear campaign.
They also maintained that the electorate should ultimately assess political candidates based on their competence, integrity, policies and vision for the future of Gombe State.
Police, EFCC Yet to Comment
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Nigeria Police Force nor the EFCC had publicly commented on the reported petition or the allegations surrounding the social media publications.
The Bureau Journal reports that the reported petition comes amid preparations for the 2027 governorship election, with political actors increasingly using digital platforms to communicate with voters and campaign for public support.
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