Amnesty: Borno Commissioner Sainna Buba Threat Sparks Probe Call

• Borno State Commissioner Sainna Buba allegedly threatened opposition parties at a campaign event on August 29, 2026.
• Amnesty International Nigeria called for a thorough investigation into the viral video of Buba's remarks.
• Amnesty described Buba's actions as reckless, unlawful, and creating a toxic climate of fear.
• The organization stated that political choices are protected by Nigeria's constitution, Electoral Act, and international law.
• Amnesty warned that such threats ahead of the 2027 elections are overheating the polity and called for condemnation of incitement.

The organization underscored that the right of individuals to make independent political choices is explicitly safeguarded by Nigeria's constitution, the Electoral Act, and international legal frameworks.

A prominent human rights organization, Amnesty International, has called for a comprehensive investigation into a viral video featuring Sainna Buba, the Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development. In the footage, Commissioner Buba is purportedly seen issuing threats against opposition political parties during a campaign event. The incident has drawn significant public attention and concern regarding the state of political discourse in Nigeria.

The Commissioner's remarks were reportedly made at an event organized by the Tinubu City Boy Movement. During his address, Mr. Buba allegedly stated that opponents who failed to support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would face punishment. Specific statements attributed to him include, "Whoever points a finger at us, we are ready to cut off that finger. We are now playing politics. Whoever points a finger at us, we will point a finger back. But whoever dares to challenge us again, we will break that finger." These comments, made on August 29, 2026, have been widely perceived by many Nigerians as an attempt to suppress opposition and undermine democratic principles.

Amnesty International Nigeria, through a statement released on its social media platforms, strongly condemned Commissioner Buba's actions, characterizing them as reckless and capable of fostering a dangerous climate of fear. The organization urged relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and effective investigation into the matter, emphasizing that citizens in a democratic system should not face retribution for their political affiliations or choices.

The human rights group further asserted that the Commissioner's conduct was unlawful, specifically citing an alleged outburst by Buba that "those who refused to obey us (vote their party) will be flogged." Amnesty International highlighted that such threats flagrantly violate the law by intimidating political opponents who do not support the APC. The organization underscored that the right of individuals to make independent political choices is explicitly safeguarded by Nigeria's constitution, the Electoral Act, and international legal frameworks. They stressed that elections are not a form of warfare, and those who choose to support or vote for opposition parties are not adversaries.

The incident involving Commissioner Sainna Buba has significant implications, particularly as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. Amnesty International warned that such political threats and intimidation tactics are prematurely escalating political tensions and creating an environment of apprehension. The organization described these actions as irresponsible and reckless, contributing to a toxic atmosphere that could jeopardize the integrity of the electoral process.

In response to these developments, Amnesty International called upon Nigerian authorities to prevent any potential impunity by ensuring that all such incidents are rigorously investigated. The human rights body also urged all political parties and individual politicians to publicly denounce any advocacy of hatred or incitement that could lead to discrimination, hostility, or violence. This stance reinforces the critical need for adherence to legal standards for political conduct, especially in the run-up to future elections.

Lawyers advising political parties or candidates in Nigeria should note the heightened scrutiny on political rhetoric and the potential legal ramifications for public statements perceived as intimidation or threats against opposition, particularly under the Electoral Act and constitutional provisions protecting political rights. This incident underscores the need for compliance with legal standards for political conduct ahead of the 2027 elections.

Source: Original reporting via Daily Trust