Senator Shehu Umar Buba has denied allegations that he promoted banditry, describing the claims as malicious and entirely baseless. The Senator, who represents the Bauchi North Senatorial District, dismissed the accusations as an attempt to tarnish his reputation and political standing.
The denial came during an interview published by Albarka Radio in Bauchi, where Buba addressed the specific claims made by a man identified as Mr Hassan.
The Senator asserted that the accusations lack any factual foundation and are designed to mislead the public regarding his commitment to security and peace within his constituency and the wider state.
Relationship between Senator Buba and Hassan
While addressing the controversy, Senator Buba provided details regarding his history with Mr Hassan to clarify how the accuser came to know him. He explained that their previous relationship was based on acquaintance and assistance, rather than any illicit partnership or alignment with criminal elements.
The Senator suggested that the accusations were a betrayal of the goodwill he had extended in the past. He maintained that his interactions with Hassan were consistent with his role as a public servant and community leader, and that these connections were being twisted to create a false narrative of complicity in regional insecurity.
Buba emphasised that the gravity of the accusation—promoting banditry—is particularly damaging given the security challenges facing the North-East and North-West regions of Nigeria. He stated that he has consistently supported government efforts to curb the activities of armed gangs and ensure the safety of residents in Bauchi state.
The allegations emerge at a time when the Nigerian government is intensifying its crackdown on banditry and kidnapping across several northern states. The pressure on political leaders to distance themselves from suspected collaborators has increased as security agencies seek to dismantle the networks supporting these criminal groups.
The Senator concluded by stating that he remains focused on his legislative duties and the development of Bauchi North, regardless of the accusations. He challenged the accuser to provide concrete evidence for the claims or face the legal consequences of defamation.
The office of the Senator has not indicated whether formal legal action will be initiated against Mr Hassan, though the matter remains a subject of public debate within Bauchi state.
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