The Northern Youth Assembly, Bauchi Chapter in Nigeria has come forward to defend Senator Shehu Buba, who represents the Bauchi South Senatorial District, against allegations of involvement in banditry made by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.
Governor Mohammed has accused Senator Buba of engaging in banditry activities within the state. In response, the Northern Youths, via a statement from their acting chairman, Comrade Mohammed Hussaini, labeled the claims as unfounded and fabricated.
The assembly argued that the governor’s allegations stem from his diminishing political influence and his attempts to undermine Senator Buba, who has emerged as a significant political figure in Bauchi.
“It is important to note that Governor Bala Abdulkadeer has been waging a public political campaign against Senator Shehu Buba, who has become a formidable challenge to the governor’s authority,” they stated. They highlighted that the governor publicly expressed his intent to tarnish Senator Buba’s reputation at a recent political gathering during the local government election campaigns.
The youth further recalled an incident where Senator Buba challenged Governor Mohammed to disclose the details of federal palliatives received for the people of Bauchi. They also pointed out the governor’s influence in the Emirate Council’s decision to revoke a traditional title previously awarded to Senator Buba.
Despite these attacks, Senator Buba has chosen not to retaliate, demonstrating political maturity and adherence to Islamic principles, according to the youth assembly.
The Northern Youths commended Senator Buba for his significant contributions to the community, particularly in areas such as education, healthcare, and humanitarian efforts, emphasizing his transformative impact across all three senatorial districts of Bauchi State.
They called on the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Governor Mohammed’s activities, citing concerns over recent threats made against the traditional council regarding Senator Buba.
The assembly expressed that these political maneuvers reflect the governor’s anxiety over Senator Buba’s rising popularity and acceptance among the electorate. They characterized the governor’s actions as desperate attempts to undermine Senator Buba’s political standing, which they believe will ultimately fail.
Furthermore, they accused the state government of mismanagement and corruption, suggesting that these allegations against Senator Buba serve as a distraction from the government’s failures.
The youth assembly stressed their awareness of the government’s nepotism, claiming that Bauchi State has become a “family enterprise” where government contracts are reserved for select individuals.
In closing, they affirmed their commitment to humanitarian values, regardless of ethnic background, and condemned any form of ethnic profiling as a violation of human rights. They emphasized their belief in unity as Nigerians, advocating for equality and respect across all communities.
