Senator Buba Speaks On Insecurity, Denies Alleged Ties To Bandits

The Senator representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, Shehu Buba, has denied allegations linking him to banditry, describing viral videos and claims circulating on social media as false and an attempt to damage his reputation.

The controversy resurfaced following videos shared online by a content creator identified as D English Alhaji, which allegedly showed suspected bandit leaders at the senator’s residence.

The issue attracted further attention after a man identified as Hassan appeared in an interview with the content creator and alleged that some politicians were supporting bandit activities in the region.

Hassan reportedly claimed that individuals associated with wanted bandit leader Dogo Gide were brought to Abuja for specialised training through an aide allegedly connected to the senator.

However, Buba rejected the allegations in a statement issued on Sunday, insisting that the claims were unfounded and should not be treated as established facts merely because they appeared in viral videos.

The lawmaker, who previously chaired the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, said he had faced similar allegations since 2024 but had consistently denied having any connection with criminal activities.

Buba explained that he had often refrained from responding to every allegation because of the sensitive nature of his former responsibilities in the Senate and the need to protect information relating to national security.

He maintained that he had no aide bearing the name mentioned in the allegations and called on relevant security agencies to investigate the claims and establish the facts.

According to the senator, genuine allegations should be subjected to proper investigation and evidentiary standards rather than being accepted simply because they have gained attention online.

Buba also argued that Nigeria’s insecurity cannot be addressed through military force alone, stressing the importance of winning the confidence and cooperation of communities affected by insecurity.

He further warned against using political disagreements as a basis for character assassination, saying he was open to scrutiny but insisted that criticism should be grounded in verifiable facts.

The senator distinguished between legitimate investigation and what he described as fabrication, adding that political opposition should not be allowed to degenerate into blackmail or deliberate attempts to destroy a person’s reputation.