The Gombe State Government has dismissed allegations by the Take-It-Back Movement (TIB) accusing the administration of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of repression and worsening insecurity, describing the claims as misleading and unfounded.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Director-General of Press Affairs, Government House Gombe, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the government said reports circulated by TIB and some online media outlets do not reflect the reality on ground in the state.
According to the statement, Gombe remains largely peaceful and stable, with a long-established culture of tolerance and law-abiding behaviour among its people.
It added that security agencies, journalists, residents and independent observers could attest to the relative calm prevailing in the state.
The government described claims of rising violence and a “culture of impunity” as exaggerated, inaccurate and unsupported by verifiable facts.
While noting that Governor Inuwa Yahaya inherited security and social challenges on assuming office, the statement said the administration has addressed these issues through sustained collaboration with security agencies, community-based peacebuilding efforts and a firm stance against political thuggery and violence.
“Like any society, Gombe is not completely immune to isolated incidents, but the overall security situation remains measured and significantly better than in many comparable environments,” the statement said.
Responding to a specific incident referenced by TIB, the government said relevant authorities acted promptly by initiating internal reviews, disciplinary measures and lawful investigations, stressing that such actions contradict claims of official complicity or tolerance for abuse.
The statement also expressed concern that a civil rights organisation would, in the government’s view, blur the line between legitimate advocacy and political sensationalism, warning that such an approach could undermine credibility and the broader pursuit of human rights.
Misilli reiterated that Governor Inuwa Yahaya does not condone violence, intimidation or lawlessness, adding that the administration supports democratic engagement, constructive dissent and youth empowerment through education, skills acquisition and economic opportunities.
The government urged human rights organisations and activists to exercise professionalism, objectivity and restraint, and appealed to residents of the state to remain calm and peaceful.
“Gombe will not be distracted by unfounded allegations,” the statement concluded, assuring that governance in the state would continue to be guided by peace, security, justice and the rule of law.