- A coalition of youth groups urged the Senate to remove Senator Shehu Umar Buba from his role as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Security and Intelligence
- The coalition stressed that Buba's role in national security is incompatible with ongoing allegations of terrorism
- Senator Buba has been under investigation for alleged involvement in banditry, with Bauchi State Governor requesting a probe by President Tinubu
The Nigerian Senate has been urged to remove Senator Shehu Umar Buba from his position as head of the Senate Committee on Security and Intelligence by a coalition of youth groups after allegations surfaced linking him to banditry.
In a letter directed to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, the group emphasised that Senator Buba cannot hold the position of security and intelligence chair while being probed for terrorism.
Youth coalition demands investigation into Buba's banditry allegations
The letter read in parts, "We write on behalf of the National Coalition of Youths Groups, a network of concerned Nigerian youths dedicated to promoting national peace, security, and good governance. We are deeply disturbed by recent allegations linking Senator Shehu Umar Buba, representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, with banditry.
"It has come to public notice that Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has formally requested President Bola Tinubu to launch a transparent and thorough investigation into these grave allegations.”
Senator Buba, elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC), represents the Bauchi South Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate.
Buba told to step down
The coalition emphasised the necessity of the senator stepping down, especially in light of the Bauchi State government's call for President Bola Tinubu to investigate the allegations.
Additionally, the coalition demanded an in-depth investigation to confirm whether the senator has any ties to banditry.
"Considering the seriousness of these allegations—especially at a time when banditry and kidnapping are pressing national security challenges—it is crucial that these allegations be fully investigated, regardless of the individuals involved.
"As you are aware, the insecurity caused by banditry has claimed numerous lives, displaced thousands, and crippled economic activities, particularly in northern Nigeria, including Bauchi State. If proven true, the involvement of any public officeholder, particularly a Senator, in such crimes not only undermines public confidence in the National Assembly but also endangers the nation's security infrastructure.
Integrity, accountability demanded from National Assembly
Copies of the letter were sent to President Tinubu, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, the Director General of the DSS, the Inspector General of Police, and the Nigerian Governors' Forum.
The letter further read, "In light of this, we respectfully urge your esteemed office to initiate an immediate and thorough investigation into these allegations. Justice must not only be served but must also be seen to be served. Furthermore, we call on Senator Shehu Umar Buba to step aside as Chairman Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence to allow for an impartial investigation, devoid of any compromise.
"The security of our nation cannot be compromised, and no individual, irrespective of political or social standing, should be above the law. The National Assembly must uphold its reputation as a bastion of integrity and accountability, especially on matters concerning national security."
The letter was officially signed by Bashir Garba Zamfara, President of the Coalition, alongside the group's Secretary, Ikenna Ellis Ezenekwe.
Matawalle denies banditry links, dares political rivals to take oath with Quran
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the former Zamfara Governor Bello Matawalle dared General Ali Gusau and Governor Dauda Lawal to publicly swear on the Holy Quran, denying any involvement in banditry.
The incumbent governor of Zamfara, Lawal, had earlier demanded that Matawalle resign from his position as Minister of Defense due to accusations of his involvement in banditry.