Press Conference Statement by Bauchi State Youth Democratic Assembly.
Distinguished members of the press, fellow citizens of Nigeria, and observers from the international community,
We welcome you to this critical press briefing convened by the Bauchi State Youth Democratic Assembly. Today, we address a matter of national urgency and moral responsibility one that concerns the safety, dignity, and future of our people.
We speak not only as representatives of Bauchi South but as concerned Nigerians who refuse to remain silent in the face of alleged betrayal by those entrusted with public office.
Allegations Against Senator Shehu Buba Umar
We hereby call on:
– President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
– The National Assembly
– Security Agencies including the DSS, EFCC, and Nigerian Police Force
– International Human Rights and Security Monitoring Bodies
To immediately launch a comprehensive investigation into Senator Shehu Buba Umar, representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, over allegations of sponsoring Fulani bandits and undermining national security.
Multiple reports and viral social media footage have surfaced, allegedly linking the senator to known bandit networks operating across Northern Nigeria. These claims, if proven true, represent a gross violation of public trust and a direct threat to national stability.
Call for Removal from Senate Committee on Security and Intelligence:
We strongly urge the National Assembly to strip Senator Shehu Buba Umar of his position as Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence.
It is inconceivable that an individual facing such grave allegations should continue to oversee matters of national security. His continued leadership in this role is not only a conflict of interest but a sabotage of the system designed to protect Nigerian lives.
Circulating Evidence and Public Concern:
The Assembly notes with concern the circulation of video evidence on social media platforms, allegedly showing interactions between Senator Buba and individuals identified as bandit leaders. While we acknowledge that digital content must be verified, the volume and consistency of these materials warrant immediate forensic review by security agencies.
Misappropriation of Federal Intervention Funds:
Despite receiving billions of Naira in Federal Intervention Projects, Senator Buba has failed to show evidence of capital projects worth even ₦500 million across Bauchi South. This raises serious questions about the mismanagement of public funds, and we demand a full audit of all allocations and expenditures linked to his office.
Appeal to the Electorate:
We call on the electorate across Nigeria to desist from voting for any politician linked to banditry, kidnapping, or crimes against humanity. The ballot is not just a civic tool it is a moral weapon. We must not hand over our lives and property to those who enable violence and instability.
Call for International Oversight:
We appeal to the International Criminal Court (ICC), Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch, among others, to:
– Release any findings or intelligence reports regarding Senator Buba’s alleged involvement in banditry.
– Monitor the investigation process to ensure transparency and accountability.
– Support Nigeria in its fight against political impunity and terrorism.
Background and Context:
Senator Shehu Buba Umar has previously advocated for non-kinetic approaches to insecurity, including dialogue with armed groups. While such strategies may be academically valid, they must not be used as a cloak for complicity. Allegations against him have been dismissed by some groups, including the Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria, but public trust cannot be restored without independent investigation.
Furthermore, the senator has denied accusations from Governor Bala Mohammed and other critics, calling them politically motivated. However, denial is not exoneration, and only a transparent inquiry can establish the truth.
Final Demands:
1. Immediate suspension of Senator Shehu Buba Umar from all Senate committees pending investigation.
2. Constitution of a joint investigative panel comprising DSS, EFCC, and independent observers.
3. Public release of all federal allocations received by the senator since 2023.
4. Protection of whistleblowers and journalists reporting on this matter.
5. International collaboration to trace financial flows and communications linked to bandit networks.
Signed:
Aliyu Abubakar
Speaker, Bauchi State Youth Democratic Assembly
Luka Ayuba
Member Representing Bauchi South, Bauchi State Youth Democratic Assembly
September 4, 2025
Bauchi State House of Assembly Complex
