Key Takeaways
- Borno State Commissioner Hon. Saina Buba initially threatened to 'cut off the finger' of anyone pointing at government officials and cane opponents of the APC.
- His aggressive rhetoric drew sharp criticism for violating democratic norms and endangering dissenting voices.
- The Nigeria Police Force launched a critical probe into Buba's comments, labeling inciting remarks as a 'criminal offence.'
- Following police intervention and sustained public anger, Buba issued a formal retraction and an 'unreserved apology.'
- Buba clarified that his remarks do not represent the democratic ideals of the All Progressives Congress (APC) or Governor Babagana Umara Zulum's administration.
Borno State Commissioner of Youths, Sports and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Saina Buba, has formally retracted his highly controversial remarks threatening physical harm against political opponents. The commissioner's initial statements, made during the 'City Boy Movement Empowerment Programme' in Maiduguri, included threats to 'cut off the finger' of anyone pointing at government officials and to cane those who refused to support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Buba had reportedly declared that citizens who voted for the ruling party would be 'fed with honey,' while opponents would face 'physical punishment.' This aggressive rhetoric immediately sparked widespread condemnation from civil society groups and political observers. Critics warned that such pronouncements from a public official threatened public safety, violated fundamental democratic norms, and endangered dissenting voices within the state, posing a direct threat to multi-party democracy.
Initially, Commissioner Buba attempted to defend his stance, holding a press briefing where he stated he had 'no apology' for his comments, controversially claiming 'no opposition in Borno.' This defiant posture only intensified public anger, with many perceiving a distinct lack of remorse.
The situation escalated significantly when the Nigeria Police Force intervened. On Tuesday, the force announced a critical probe into the inciting comments made by Buba and two other APC chieftains. Force spokesman Anietie Iniedu, at a joint security briefing in Abuja, described inciting comments, particularly those related to the electoral process, as 'a criminal offence.' He emphasized, 'The law is very clear when it comes to inciting. It is criminal to incite members of the public, especially as you comment on the electoral process,' signaling serious legal consequences.
Hours after the police spokesman's stern warning, Commissioner Buba issued a new statement, marking a significant shift from his earlier defiance. He expressed profound regret over the uproar his comments had caused and offered an 'unreserved apology' to the people of Borno State and beyond.
'In recent days, a comment I made... has generated considerable concern,' Buba stated. 'I wish to state, unequivocally, that my remark was never intended to harm or violate the fundamental rights of the people of our dear state to freedom of choice and association, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).'
While acknowledging previous attempts to clarify that the remark was not meant to be taken literally, the commissioner recognized the gravity of ongoing public concern, prompting his formal retraction. He further distanced his statements from the party's official stance: 'Let me state in categorical terms that my comment does not in any way represent the ideals of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the administration of His Excellency, Governor Professor Babagana Umara Zulum.' Buba affirmed that Governor Zulum and the APC have consistently demonstrated a true democratic spirit, upholding the rights of all citizens, particularly the youth.
Why This Matters
This incident highlights the critical importance of responsible public discourse, especially from elected and appointed officials, in a democratic society. Inflammatory rhetoric not only undermines public trust but also poses a direct threat to peace, electoral integrity, and the fundamental rights of citizens to express dissent without fear of reprisal. The swift police action and subsequent retraction underscore the necessity for accountability and adherence to democratic principles, ensuring that political leaders uphold the values of freedom of speech and association rather than resorting to intimidation.