Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has warned critics of the state government against continuing to oppose the administration of Governor Babagana Zulum.
Buba made the remarks on Saturday in Maiduguri during a campaign inauguration organised by the City Boy Movement, a political support group backing President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid.
The commissioner warned that those who continued to challenge the state government would face consequences, saying politics involved patience, lobbying and enforcement.
“Whoever raises their fingers against us, we will do the same to them. If you raise your fingers again, we will cut them off.”
Buba also said critics should support the administration and benefit from its empowerment programmes, warning that those who refused to do so would face punishment.
“This is our administration, follow us and drink the honey. Whoever does not follow us will be flogged.”
He said the government was already engaging some of its critics on TikTok and other social media platforms, stressing that such engagement should not be interpreted as weakness.
Borno is among the states currently controlled by the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Remarks Spark Debate
Buba’s comments sparked heated reactions on social media on Monday, coming shortly after controversial remarks by Danjuma Shekwolo, chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory.
Shekwolo had said residents must support the APC or leave the area council, arguing that those who benefited from interventions by President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike should not oppose the ruling party.
“It’s either you are doing APC or leave the area council.”
Shekwolo later clarified that the statement was made during a meeting with APC youths and loyalists and was not intended to deny residents their rights based on political affiliation.
The comments from both officials have renewed debate over political tolerance and the right of citizens to support parties or candidates of their choice ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Source: citing a viral video of Sainna Buba’s remarks.
