PR
The Bauchi State Muslim Parliament has reiterated its support for Senator Shehu Buba Umar, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Security and National Intelligence, lauding his efforts in conflict resolution, dialogue, and reconciliation as part of wider attempts to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
At a press conference held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Bauchi, the Parliament’s leader, Engr. Ahmad Yusuf, said the organisation felt compelled to “set the records straight” and defend the senator against what it described as smear campaigns and attempts at character assassination.
According to Yusuf, the Parliament which brings together Islamic organisations and community representatives in Bauchi South recognises Senator Umar’s contribution to peacebuilding through dialogue with diverse groups, including farming and pastoralist communities, political stakeholders, and even non-state actors. He noted that such initiatives had helped reduce communal clashes, rebuild trust amongst neighbours, and avert potential outbreaks of violence, particularly in Akaleri Local Government Area.
“Security is the concern of every responsible member of society, and every segment has a role to play,” Yusuf said, praising the senator’s “capacity, political will, and understanding of the complex dynamics at play in the nation’s security landscape.”
The Parliament stressed that accusations levelled against Senator Umar were politically motivated distractions aimed at undermining his achievements and the confidence placed in him by his constituents. They pointed to his longstanding record as a peace advocate, dating back to his tenure as Special Adviser on Nomadic Affairs under former Governor Isa Yuguda and later as Executive Chairman of Toro Local Government.
The group further appealed to the Federal Government to provide relief and support for victims of banditry, displacement, and violent conflicts, urging that grievances be addressed without delay in order to prevent further unrest.
Yusuf also called upon Islamic scholars and political actors to refrain from inflammatory remarks or from politicising issues of national security, stressing the importance of unity, prayer, and meaningful contributions to peace.
“We urge all stakeholders to put their heads together and join in finding lasting solutions to the nation’s security challenges. Nigerians should remain calm, avoid fuelling division, and support efforts that promote peace and development,” the statement concluded.
The briefing ended with an expression of appreciation to the press for what the Parliament described as its role in fostering unity and enlightenment across the country.