Alleged Sponsoring Of Banditry: Group Calls Relief Of Chairman, Senate Committee On National Security, Intelligence, Shehu Umar Buba

By; AMOS TAUNA, Kaduna

Following an alleged leaked video that implicates Senator Shehu Umar Buba, Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and intelligence in the sponsorship of banditry in Zamfara State, the Northern Youth For Peace and Progress, has called on the Senate President, Goodwill Akpabio to relieve Senator Buba of his chairmanship position to provide the Senate with the necessary leeway to conduct thorough investigations into the serious allegations.

Addressing newsmen in Kaduna on Monday, its coordinator, Comrade Hassan Sadau, explained, “a leaked video that implicates Senator Buba in the sponsorship of banditry. This footage, which has emerged from an aggrieved individual associated with the Senator, depicts a shocking scene: large sums of money being loaded into a vehicle at Senator Buba’s residence, accompanied by a troubling number of motorcycles, specifically the brand utilized by bandits in our region.”

Disturbingly, he further explained that the cargo was reportedly escorted by Sheikh Assadus Sunnah, a figure notorious for his connections to the banditry network.

Sadau said that the implications of the video is profound, it raises serious questions about the integrity of the Senate Committee on National Security and its ability to function impartially under the leadership of an individual accused of such heinous crimes, saying that the very essence of the legislative body is compromised when its members are embroiled in activities that threaten the safety and security of the citizens they are sworn to protect.

According to him, the widespread belief among their citizens that the operations of notorious bandit leaders including Bello Turji, Adamu Aliero, and Dogo Gide have been conducted with the “tacit approval of Senator Buba”, stressing that the perception not only undermines public confidence in the security apparatus, but also instills fear among the victims of banditry, who feel abandoned and betrayed by their elected representatives.

He lamented that the people of Zamfara have endured untold suffering, and the notion that their elected official may be complicit in their suffering is a bitter pill to swallow.

For an extended period, the coordinator explained that they have submitted several petitions and alerts regarding the activities of Senator Buba, pointing out that the communications have outlined their concerns about his alleged involvement in the sponsorship of banditry and other forms of organized crime that have plagued their region.

“Despite our repeated appeals, it appears that these warnings have been met with indifference, allowing the situation to escalate unchecked. The people of Zamfara have suffered immensely from the consequences of banditry, leading to loss of lives, displacement of families, and the erosion of our social fabric,” he lamented.

By relieving Senator Buba of his position as Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, he believed that the Senate would not only demonstrate its commitment to addressing the security challenges facing the nation but also affirm its dedication to upholding the rule of law and protecting the interests of the citizens it represents.

Currently, he alleged that the credibility of the Senate Committee on National Security is compromised, as its operations are hindered by the presence of a leader facing such grave accusations.

He noted that the decision to refer Senator Buba to the Ethics Committee of the Senate for further action underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and accountability within our legislative body, saying that the step reflects a commitment to upholding ethical standards, ensuring that all members adhere to the principles of transparency and responsibility.

He believed, “By subjecting Senator Buba’s conduct to thorough examination, the Senate demonstrates its dedication to fostering public trust and safeguarding the democratic process. It is imperative that the committee conducts a comprehensive review, allowing for a fair assessment that upholds the rule of law and the values inherent to our governance.”

Sadau believed that the action would offer much-needed relief to the estranged victims of kidnappings and banditry in Zamfara, saying that many of these individuals live in constant fear, haunted by the memories of their loved ones who have been taken from them.

He said that they are worried that the very person responsible for their suffering is in a position of power and influence over national security matters, believing that by addressing these concerns, the Senate can begin to restore faith in its commitment to justice and the protection of its citizens.

According to him, the credibility of the Senate is paramount in fostering public trust in the democratic institutions, by acting decisively in response to these allegations, the Senate can demonstrate its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, stressing that the people of Zamfara, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve a Senate that prioritizes their safety and security above all else.

“By taking a stand against corruption and complicity, the Senate can reclaim its position as a bastion of hope and justice for the citizens it serves,” he explained.