Bauchi PRP gov’ship candidate submits self to security agencies over banditry allegations

The Bauchi State governorship candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Senator Shehu Buba Umar, has voluntarily submitted himself to security agencies for investigation over allegations linking him to banditry, terrorism financing, kidnapping, and other criminal activities.

Umar, who currently represents Bauchi South Senatorial District, explained that he took the step to clear his name and allow the Department of State Services (DSS), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and the Nigeria Police Force to independently investigate the claims.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday in Bauchi, Umar noted that the allegations against him were not new.

He claimed that a similar campaign first emerged in 2014, adding that those earlier accusations were thoroughly investigated and debunked before resurfacing years later in different forms.

Senator Umar challenged anyone with evidence linking him to banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, or the financing of criminal groups to submit such proof directly to the appropriate authorities.

Umar stated that the latest allegations became serious enough for him to seek official intervention rather than allowing the matter to remain a subject of social media speculation.

“I have nothing to hide, and I have nothing to fear from any legitimate investigation,” he said.

Umar further disclosed that his legal team, led by former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN, has formally written to the DSS, DIA, and police requesting a comprehensive investigation.

“Do not hide behind social media. Do not rely on edited videos, insinuations, propaganda, or anonymous allegations,” he cautioned.

Umar added that he had previously taken legal action over what he described as false allegations, noting that several individuals accused of spreading the claims are currently facing proceedings before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

He also referenced his September 2025 petition to the Nigeria Police Force and a September 7, 2026 petition seeking Interpol intervention regarding an individual his legal team believes is orchestrating the allegations.

Copies of his submissions have been forwarded to the National Security Adviser, Chief of Defence Intelligence, Chief of Defence Staff, and the Minister of Defence.

The lawmaker—who previously chaired the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence—explained that his past official engagements with security and intelligence agencies may have been deliberately misrepresented as links to criminal elements.

He declared his readiness to face prosecution if investigators establish a prima facie case against him based on credible evidence.

Umar, who is seeking to contest the 2027 Bauchi governorship election on the PRP platform, expressed confidence that the allegations were designed to damage his political reputation.

He urged his supporters to remain calm and refrain from insulting, threatening, or attacking anyone over the matter.

“If there is evidence against me, let it be produced. If there is none, those who have deliberately manufactured and circulated these allegations should equally be held accountable under the law,” he said. “My conscience is clear. I have nothing to hide. I have voluntarily submitted myself for investigation because the truth should not be afraid of scrutiny.”