7th August, 2026 | News

Senator Shehu Buba Denies Bandit Links, Says Viral Videos Were Manipulated

Senator representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, Shehu Buba, has denied allegations linking him to bandit groups, describing viral videos purportedly showing bandit leaders visiting his residence in Bauchi as fabricated and deliberately manipulated.

Buba, who chairs the Senate Committee on Livestock and Animal Husbandry and is the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) governorship candidate in Bauchi State, said a fact-check of the videos showed that unrelated footage had been combined to create a misleading narrative.

According to the senator, the individuals featured in the first clip were speaking Fulfulde, while those in the second video were speaking English, indicating that the two recordings were unrelated.

Buba explained that the first video showed Kaduna-based Hajj returnees who visited his residence in 2023, while the second footage featured different individuals displaying passports.

He described the allegations as false and malicious, alleging that they were part of a coordinated campaign of disinformation driven by partisan interests and financial motives.

Shehu Buba Challenges Accusers to Provide Evidence

In a statement titled “Setting the Record Straight: My Response to Fabricated Videos, False Allegations and a Sustained Campaign of Disinformation,” the senator challenged anyone with credible evidence of wrongdoing against him to submit it to the appropriate authorities.

Buba insisted that he had nothing to hide and would not be intimidated by any legitimate investigation.

He also appealed to his supporters to remain calm and avoid being provoked by the allegations.

The senator urged them to remain focused on the 2027 elections and his campaign to provide what he described as a credible alternative for Bauchi State based on service, development and security.

“Let us remain calm, disciplined and committed to the democratic process,” he said.

Senator Explains Earlier Silence

Buba said he initially chose not to respond to the allegations because of the sensitive nature of his former role as Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence.

According to him, national security responsibilities require a significant level of discretion because publicly revealing certain operational information could expose sources, endanger individuals and communities or undermine ongoing security interventions.

He maintained that his decision to remain silent at the time should not be interpreted as an admission of the allegations.

The senator reiterated his denial of any links to bandit groups and said he remained committed to addressing issues affecting his constituents and participating in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 elections.