Gombe clerics, journalists tackle misinformation crisis ahead elections

Religious leaders, media professionals, and stakeholders have converged in Gombe State for a two-day capacity-building workshop aimed at combating misinformation and promoting media literacy ahead of Nigeria’s election season.

The workshop, organised by Alkalanci, a fact-checking and media literacy organisation, brought together the Islamic clerics and journalists to strengthen community resilience against false narratives, disinformation and emerging threats such as deep fakes.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the editor of Alkalanci, Hassan Bala, described the initiative as both timely and urgent, warning that the country faces heightened risks of misinformation as the elections approach.

The workshop featured practical sessions on fact-checking, verification of digital content, and strategies for countering false narratives.

Organisers disclosed to Arewa PUNCH that similar trainings have been held in Kano and Sokoto, with expansion plans across Nigeria to build a network of “resilient communities” anchored on truth and accountability.

“Our goal is to create communities where misinformation can not easily take root because people are equipped to challenge and reject it,” Bala said.

“This year is an election eve period, and misinformation is expected to rise not just from local actors but also through foreign information manipulation and interference,” Bala noted.

“With the growing sophistication of AI-generated content like deepfakes, we must equip influential voices to protect themselves and their communities from falsehood,” he alerted.

The editor further warned that the rapid spread of unverified content poses a direct threat to peace and unity.

“A single message can reach thousands within minutes. Unfortunately, much of what circulates is misleading or harmful. That is why we are here to build resilience through truth,” he insisted.

Bala noted that the training specifically targets Islamic clerics due to their influence in shaping public opinion.

“For millions, your voices are sources of guidance and authority. With that trust comes the responsibility to ensure what you share is verified and beneficial,” he said.

Representing the Emir of Gombe, Abubakar Shehu-Abubakar, the Dan Amana Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Isma’ila, underscored the moral and religious obligation to uphold truth.

“Misinformation and disinformation remain among the most pressing challenges of our time, often leading to social tension and conflict,” he said.

“Our faith teaches us to verify information before sharing it. Truthfulness is not just an ethical duty. It is an act of faith.”

He urged participants to apply the knowledge gained to promote unity and informed discourse in their communities.

The President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Alhassan Yahya, also highlighted the relevance of the training in today’s fast-paced media environment.

According to him, “This initiative is highly commendable. It is designed to equip participants with the skills to distinguish between false and authentic information.

“For journalists, the priority must always be accuracy, not merely being the first to break the news.”

Yahya observed that the rise of citizen journalism and social media has increased the risk of spreading unverified information.

“Misinformation is a global challenge. Addressing it requires integrity, responsibility, and collective effort,” he maintained.

On press freedom, the NUJ president reaffirmed the union’s stance against intimidation of journalists.

“Journalism is not a crime. It is a vital pillar of democracy, and it must be protected at all costs,” he declared.

Also speaking, Director-General, Gombe State Media Corporation, Ibrahim Isa, described misinformation as a growing threat capable of causing confusion and even violence if left unchecked.

“It is a disturbing phenomenon affecting all facets of our lives. If care is not taken, misinformation could take over the communication space,” he warned.

While acknowledging calls for regulation, Isa said controlling misinformation, especially on social media, remains difficult.

“Everyone is now a journalist. Regulating the space is extremely challenging. Sanctions alone can not solve the problem. We must explore broader solutions,” he urged, even as he commended the organisers for focusing on religious leaders, noting their critical role in influencing society.