Borno Commissioner Apologises After Controversial Break Finger Remark Sparks Outrage

The Borno State Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation, Youths and Sports, Hon. Saina Buba, has apologised and formally withdrawn a controversial remark he made during an empowerment programme organised by the City Boy Movement in Maiduguri.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Buba had attracted widespread criticism following his comments at the event, where he said, “Whoever shows us a finger, we will show him a finger… Whoever dares to show us a finger again, we will break his finger.”

The statement sparked reactions, with concerns raised over what some interpreted as a threat against political opponents or individuals who might express dissent.

The commissioner had initially clarified that his comment was not directed at the opposition and maintained that there was no need for him to apologise.

However, speaking with journalists at his office in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Buba reversed his position, formally retracting the statement and apologising to the people of Borno State and beyond for any offence it may have caused.

Buba explained that the remark had generated significant concern in the public space in recent days, stressing that it was never intended to promote violence or undermine the fundamental rights of residents.

He said his comment was not meant to be interpreted literally and reaffirmed his respect for the constitutional rights of citizens to freedom of choice and association.

The commissioner said, “In recent days, a comment I made during the empowerment programme organised by the City Boy Movement in Maiduguri has generated considerable concern within the public space.

“I wish to state, unequivocally, that my remark was never intended to harm or violate the fundamental rights of the people of our dear state to freedom of choice and association, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.

“I had earlier provided clarification that the comment was not intended to be taken in its literal sense.

“However, in view of the concern it has continued to generate, I am using this medium to retract my earlier statement formally and to apologise to the entire people of Borno State and beyond for any offence it may have caused.”

Buba also distanced the controversial remark from the ruling All Progressives Congress and the administration of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum.

He stressed that his comment did not reflect the principles or ideals of the APC or the position of the state government.

The commissioner further assured residents that the Borno State Government remains committed to protecting the rights of citizens, upholding democratic principles and promoting freedom of choice and association across the state.