Senator Shehu Buba, representing Bauchi South, is once again at the center of serious allegations regarding his purported support for banditry. The accusations, which have resurfaced after a series of previous claims, were brought to light by a local resident known as 'Hassan' during an interview with social media influencer, 'D English Alhaji Media'. Hassan alleged that Buba is one of the politicians aiding bandits in the region, specifically linking him to notorious bandit kingpin, Dogo Gide.

These latest claims come on the heels of longstanding accusations against Buba, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In his defense, the senator stated that Hassan is being sponsored by political opponents to tarnish his reputation. Buba revealed that he had submitted a formal petition to the Inspector General of Police regarding the matter, claiming that four suspects had been arrested in connection with the allegations. He further asserted that Hassan, identified as a primary suspect, has fled to Niger Republic, where he allegedly continues to propagate misinformation against him.

Buba expressed his determination to clear his name, stating, "Those sponsoring him cannot change destiny; if God says I will be, nobody can stop me using social media propaganda against me."

Despite Buba's claims, the police have not confirmed any formal complaint or investigation related to the allegations. Nafiu Habib, the Police Public Relations Officer in Bauchi State, stated that without a formal petition from the involved parties, the police cannot take any action.

In response to the allegations, Mukhtar Gwarzo, a close ally of Buba and Managing Director of Nixon Energy and Nixon Telecoms, defended the senator, urging for a thorough investigation into the claims. Gwarzo emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, particularly as they pertain to national security, and called for transparency in the investigative process. He insisted that the truth must be established without bias, stating, "Let every allegation be thoroughly investigated."

This is not the first time Buba has faced scrutiny over allegations related to banditry. In September 2024, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed sent a petition to President Bola Tinubu, accusing Buba of facilitating the registration and funding of suspected bandits for the Hajj pilgrimage. The governor claimed that two individuals linked to banditry were registered through Buba's aide, which raised significant concerns about the senator's potential complicity in criminal activities.

Calls for an independent investigation into Buba's actions have gained traction, with former Minister for Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, urging the Department of State Services (DSS) to clarify its investigative status. Dalung emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that political connections should not shield public officials from scrutiny.

In a related development, Buba has previously faced allegations of negotiating with terror kingpin Bello Turji, which led to further controversy regarding his commitment to combating terrorism. Following these accusations, Buba's legal team filed a petition with the Force Criminal Investigation Department, alleging a coordinated campaign of defamation against him.

As the situation unfolds, the senator's future remains uncertain, with many demanding clarity and accountability regarding the serious allegations against him.