A coalition of North East groups, including the Northeast Concerned Citizens Association, Shehu Buba Ambassadors, Association of Tailors and Artisans, and the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises in Bauchi State, has dismissed allegations linking the senator representing Bauchi South to banditry.

The groups, in a joint press conference on Friday, believed that the allegation was a “Pull Him Down” tactic by his political rivals. The Coordinator of the group, Mubarak Inuwa Gorama, speaking on behalf of the coalition, stated that certain “malicious and politically-inspired” allegations had been made to link Shehu Buba Umar with banditry.

He said, “These claims are not only false but a calculated attempt to discredit the integrity of a man whose record in public service stands as one of sacrifice, patriotism, and untiring commitment to national security.
“For the avoidance of doubt, distinguished Senator Shehu Buba Umar has consistently demonstrated leadership in the fight against insecurity. As Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, he has been at the forefront of pushing innovative strategies that go beyond the use of force.
“He has argued, both in the Senate and during public engagements, that Nigeria must adopt a blend of kinetic and non-kinetic approaches if the fight against banditry, insurgency, and other crimes is to yield lasting results. This is why he has championed dialogue, reconciliation, and socio-economic renewal as vital tools alongside military action,” he said.

Mubarak believed that the Senator’s non-kinetic advocacy is already shaping policy directions at the national level and is “worthy of note that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria has witnessed renewed vigour in the war against insecurity.
“The President’s firm support for reforms in the security sector, coupled with his approval of critical interventions, has provided the enabling environment for sustainable peace-building efforts across the country.”

He said that recently, the Nation witnessed how Senator Buba’s efforts, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and other key stakeholders, have led to a more balanced approach to security management.
“In this regard, the role of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, must be commended. His pragmatic headship, openness to innovative ideas, and relentless commitment to national security have been instrumental in translating Senator Buba’s non-kinetic advocacy into actionable policy. Civil society networks across the country have acknowledged the positive impact of this strategy, noting a gradual reduction in violent incidents in communities once plagued by criminality.”