Senator Shehu Buba Umar has denied allegations linking him to banditry, terrorism financing, kidnapping and other violent crimes, describing them as “politically motivated smear campaigns.”
The Senator, who is also the 2027 governorship candidate of the PRP in Bauchi State, addressed journalists in Abuja on Monday, September 14, 2026. He insisted that the allegations against him had persisted despite previous legal action and security reports debunking them in 2014.
“I Have Nothing to Hide”
Senator Buba said he had voluntarily submitted himself to the Department of State Services, DSS, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Defence Intelligence Agency, DIA for a “thorough and comprehensive investigation” into all allegations made against him.
Through his legal team led by former Nigerian Bar Association President, Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN, the Senator said formal letters had been written to the security agencies requesting an investigation “in the interest of national security and the protection of my reputation and integrity as a Nigerian citizen.”
“I have never sponsored, financed, armed, facilitated, or supported banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, or any criminal organization or activities whatsoever,” he stated.
He added that allegations of such magnitude against a serving senator “should not be allowed to remain matters of social media speculations.”
Call for Evidence
The lawmaker publicly challenged anyone with credible evidence to submit it to security agencies rather than rely on “edited videos, insinuations, propaganda, or anonymous allegations.”
“I seek no special treatment. My position is simple: let every allegation be subjected to impartial scrutiny, let every piece of evidence be examined, and let the truth prevail,” he said.
Senator Buba also said he was prepared to face prosecution if a prima facie case was established, and would accept the consequences if a competent court found him guilty.
Past Legal Actions
The Senator noted that he previously served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, and that sensitive engagements during that period were now being “distorted and weaponized” to create the impression of links to criminal elements.
He disclosed that in September 2025, he petitioned the Nigeria Police Force over publications containing the allegations. The case is currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
He further alleged that one Hassan Sani Hussain, believed to be behind several of the allegations, is reportedly operating from Niger Republic. The matter, he said, has been reported for INTERPOL intervention, with counsel also engaged in Niger Republic.
Senator Buba said he has also made himself available to international bodies including Amnesty International that have expressed concerns about the developments.
The press conference comes amid rising public discourse on security and terrorism financing ahead of the 2027 elections. Security agencies have not yet issued an official statement on the Senator’s submission.
The Senator urged Nigerians to allow the law to take its course and for investigations to be guided by facts and evidence.