By: Jibrin Hussaini Kundum, Bauchi
The Senator representing Bauchi South Senatorial District at the Red Chamber, Shehu Buba Umar, says he has voluntarily submitted himself to security agencies for a comprehensive investigation into allegations linking him to banditry, terrorism financing, kidnapping and other criminal activities.
Shehu Buba stated this at a press conference in Bauchi, where he categorically denied the allegations, describing them as false and politically motivated.
He observed that the similar allegations first emerged in 2024, prompting him to take legal action against those he believed were responsible for spreading them.
The Senator said, through his legal team led by former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN, he formally wrote to the Department of State Services, the Defence Intelligence Agency and the Nigeria Police Force, requesting a thorough investigation into the allegations.
Shehu Buba said he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear from any legitimate investigation, stressing that allegations involving terrorism, banditry and kidnapping should not be left to social media platforms, but must be properly investigated by the relevant security authorities.
He challenged anyone with credible evidence that he sponsored, financed, armed, facilitated or supported bandits, terrorists, kidnappers or any criminal organisation to present evidence to the appropriate security agencies, rather than relying on social media, edited videos or anonymous allegations.
The Lawmaker also pledged his full cooperation with the DSS, Nigeria Police Force, Defence Intelligence Agency, military and other relevant authorities.
Shehu Buba Umar, further stated that he seeks no special treatment, adding that if a prima facie case is established against him based on credible and verifiable evidence, he is prepared to face prosecution.
The Senator, who previously served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, said some of his legitimate engagements with security and intelligence agencies may have been distorted and used to create the impression that he had links with criminal elements.
He also linked the allegations to what he described as attempts to damage his reputation and political career ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Bauchi State.
Shehu Buba Umar appealed to his supporters to remain calm and avoid insults, threats, violence or retaliation, saying the law should be allowed to take its course.
He expressed confidence that a credible investigation based on facts and evidence would establish the truth, stressing that his conscience is clear and that he has nothing to hide.