From Khalid Idris Doya, Bauchi
Detractors of Senator Shehu Buba Umar have been tasked to sheath their swords and allow that Nigerian whose record in public service stands as one of patriotism, and untiring commitment to national security to strive his capacity.
Northeast Concerned Citizens Association recalled what it described as malicious and politically-inspired allegations that linked Senator Shehu Buba Umar with the sponsorship of insurgency in different parts of the country.
The Northeast Coordinator of the Association, Comrade Mubarak Inuwa Gorama said at a press conference in Bauchi Friday that Senator Shehu Umar has consistently demonstrated leadership in the fight against insecurity, as he has been at the forefront of pushing innovative strategies that goes beyond the use of force.
“As Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, 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, according to the association, is the reason why the Senator championed dialogue, reconciliation, and socio-economic renewal as vital tools alongside military action, saying “His non-kinetic advocacy is already shaping policy directions at the national level”.
Gorama explained that Nigeria under the leadership of Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu has witnessed renewed vigor in the war against insecurity, saying the President’s firm support for reforms in the security sector, coupled with his approval of critical interventions, has provided an environment for sustainable peace-building efforts across the country.
According to him, 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, hence the role of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as 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”.
Gorama observed that Senator Buba’s vision is not mere rhetoric, but a tested model in line with global best practices, stressing that in Bauchi state and beyond, the Senator has also shown leadership on the ground.
“When bandit attacks claimed lives in Garin Mansur, Alkaleri local government, he personally led a delegation to condole with families of victims and to meet with hunters, security operatives, and community leaders. His message was clear, insecurity must never be politicised, and only through collective effort can the menace be defeated”.
“This practical demonstration of solidarity and leadership speaks louder than the falsehoods now being spread,” he added.
Association in collaboration with Shehu Buba Ambassadors, Association of Tailors and Artisans and Association of Small and Medium Enterprises Bauchi State, also emphasised that Senator Buba’s footprint in community development is visible across Bauchi South.
“From road construction projects that have opened up rural communities, to the provision of fertilizers and food palliatives for farmers, to youth empowerment schemes that have lifted families out of poverty, his work has been about building resilience against the very conditions that breed insecurity. How then can anyone, in good conscience, attempt to associate him with the same scourge he is fighting so tirelessly to eradicate?.”
“These allegations are baseless and must be seen for what they are cheap political blackmail. In fact, we have every reason to believe that these fabrications are motivated by the fear of Senator Buba’s rising popularity and the clear prospect of his victory in the forthcoming 2027 elections.”
“The truth remains that Senator Shehu Buba Umar has emerged as one of the strongest voices for peace and stability in Nigeria, and his leadership continues to inspire hope that our nation can overcome its current security challenges,” they concluded.
