BORNO COMMISSIONER APOLOGISES OVER THREAT TO OPPOSITION

The Borno State Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation, Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has apologised and withdrawn controversial remarks in which he threatened to “flog” people who refused to support the All Progressives Congress.

Buba made the comments during an empowerment programme organised by the City Boy Movement in Maiduguri. The remarks sparked criticism after a video of the event circulated widely on social media.

Addressing journalists in Maiduguri on Wednesday, the commissioner said his comments were never intended to harm anyone or violate the constitutional rights of Borno residents to freedom of choice and association.

He acknowledged the concerns generated by the statement and formally retracted the remarks, apologising to the people of Borno State and others who may have been offended.

Buba also clarified that his comments did not represent the position of the APC or the administration of Governor Babagana Zulum.

The commissioner said the state government and the ruling party respected the rights of citizens and remained committed to democratic principles.

His apology followed criticism from political groups and civil society organisations, which had raised concerns about the remarks and their potential impact on political participation ahead of the 2027 elections.

Buba’s withdrawal of the comments comes as political activities intensify across the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.