Borno Commissioner Apologises Over Anti-Opposition Remarks

Borno State commissioner for Youths, Sports and Poverty Alleviation, Comrade Saina Buba, has retracted and tendered a public apology for threatening the opposition in the state, following widespread backlash.
LEADERSHIP reports that the commissioner came under fire after a video clip surfaced online, where he was heard threatening to flog anyone who does not support the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

He spoke at an empowerment programme organised by the City Boys Movement (CBM) last week in Maiduguri.

In the circulating video, Buba said, “The government is our government,” adding that whoever follows it will enjoy “the honey.”

He continued, “We are now playing politics. Whoever shows us a finger, we will show him a finger. Whoever dares to show us a finger again, we will break his finger.

“The government is our government. Those who follow us will enjoy the honey; if you refuse, then you will be flogged,” he said.

However, addressing journalists in Maiduguri yesterday, the commissioner said the remark was never intended to harm or violate people’s fundamental rights to freedom of choice and association.

“My remark was never intended to harm or violate the fundamental rights of the people of our dear state,” Buba told journalists. He clarified that the comment was not meant to be interpreted literally, but in view of the sustained public reaction over the past few days, he deemed it necessary to issue a formal retraction.

The commissioner offered an unreserved apology to the people of the state and beyond, expressing regret for any offence the statement may have caused.

Buba also took the opportunity to dissociate his remarks from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the administration of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum.

“Let me state in categorical terms that my comment does not in any way represent the ideals of the APC and the administration of His Excellency, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum,” he said.

He reaffirmed that both the party and the state government remain steadfast in upholding democratic principles, protecting citizens’ rights, and respecting all segments of society—particularly the youth, whom he described as loyal supporters of the Zulum administration.

“Governor Zulum and the APC have consistently demonstrated a true democratic spirit over the past seven years, and this commitment will remain unwavering to the very end of his tenure,” the Commissioner added.

Continuing, he said,” I wish to retract any statement that may have been interpreted as a threat to any individual or group. That was never my intention.

“I hold the democratic rights of all Borno people, regardless of political affiliation, in high esteem. I sincerely apologise to anyone who felt offended by my remarks.”

The Commissioner added that Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s administration remains committed to peace, tolerance, and inclusive politics.