Coalition Wants Probe of Banditry Allegation Against Senator Shehu Buba

Umar Usman Duguri.

A National Coalition of Youths, under the leadership of Bashir Gusau, has staged a peaceful protest in Abuja on Wednesday, calling for an investigation into the banditry allegations against Senator Shehu Umar Buba (Bauchi South)

The protest, which drew hundreds of concerned citizens, culminated in a press conference where the coalition articulated their demands for transparency and justice.

The group expressed deep concern over the allegations that had surfaced in recent months which linked Senator Buba to alleged ties with banditry activities.

While no formal charges have been made, the coalition insisted that the gravity of such accusations requires immediate investigation by relevant authorities, particularly as the nation continues to grapple with rising insecurity and its devastating effects on local communities.

Gusau emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the matter, stating that no individual, regardless of their political standing, should be exempted from scrutiny if implicated in activities threatening national security.

“The safety and security of our people should be of paramount concern to every leader in this country,” he said.

“It is unacceptable that someone elected to represent and protect the interests of the people of Bauchi South could be linked, even remotely, to banditry or criminal elements. This is why we are calling for an independent investigation into the allegations against Senator Buba”

He further stressed that their protest was not politically motivated but driven by the desire for justice, peace, and security in Bauchi and beyond.

The youth leader noted that insecurity had ravaged several parts of the country, leaving communities in fear and despair, and that individuals in power should not be shielded from accountability.

The coalition called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Nigerian security agencies to take swift and decisive action.

According to Gusau, allowing the allegations to go uninvestigated would only fuel public distrust in the nation’s institutions and erode confidence in the fight against insecurity.

“It is our firm belief that if a proper investigation is carried out, and if Senator Buba is found innocent, then justice will have been served,” Gusaid pointed out.

“But if there is any truth to these claims, then the law must take its course, regardless of his political stature. The people of Bauchi South, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve to know the truth”

Senator Shehu Umar Buba had reacted to the allegation, which were also made by Bauchi State Governor Sen Bala Mohammed, as fabricated and malicious.

Senator Buba, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence declared that he would not be intimidated by anyone or persons engaging in unsubstantiated claims.

Speaking through his Legislative Assistant, Hassan Gajin Duguri, he said:

“Senator Buba remains resolute in denying baseless allegations and reaffirms his commitment to the security of the nation and his constituents through scholarships, skills acquisition as well as youth and women empowerment.

“As the Chairman of a crucial Senate Committee, Senator Buba has actively championed initiatives aimed at counter-insurgency and anti-banditry; the efforts are beginning to yield positive results.

“Additionally, he is recognized for his contributions to infrastructure development, poverty reduction, provision of social amenities, palliatives to mitigate the effects of petrol subsidy removal, among others interventions”