NDC, Amnesty International Condemn Borno Commissioner’s Threats

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and Amnesty International (AI) condemned Borno State Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Comrade Saina Buba, for allegedly threatening political opponents during a campaign event for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in Maiduguri. In a viral video from the event, Buba reportedly stated, “Whoever shows us a finger, we are ready to cut off his fingers,” and warned that supporters would “enjoy the honey” while dissenters would be “flogged.” Following public outrage, Buba denied the allegations at a press conference, asserting that his comments were figurative and aimed at disgruntled members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Northeast.

The NDC's National Spokesman, Comrade AK Balarabe, emphasized citizens' rights to political expression and called for security authorities to ensure the protection of opposition members. Amnesty International urged a thorough investigation, labeling Buba's threats as unlawful and irresponsible, asserting that political affiliations should not lead to punishment.