Amnesty Seeks Action Against Borno Commissioner Over Threat to Cut off Opponents’ Fingers

By Uzair Adam

Amnesty International has called for a thorough investigation into a viral video in which Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, allegedly threatened political opponents at a campaign event.

Buba was reportedly speaking at an event organised by the Tinubu City Boy Movement when he warned opponents against challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In the video, the commissioner was heard saying those who “point a finger” at his group would have their fingers broken, in what has sparked reactions among Nigerians.

“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,” Buba was quoted as saying.

Reacting to the development, Amnesty International Nigeria described the remarks as reckless and irresponsible, warning that such statements could create a climate of fear ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The rights organisation, in a statement posted on its social media platforms, urged the relevant authorities to investigate the commissioner’s comments and ensure that political differences do not become a basis for intimidation or punishment.

“The Nigerian authorities must thoroughly and effectively investigate a viral video in which a member of Borno State cabinet was threatening opponents or those who belong to opposition political parties,” Amnesty said.

The organisation further condemned an alleged threat that those who refused to support the commissioner’s party would be punished, describing such conduct as unlawful in a democracy.

According to Amnesty, Nigerians have a constitutional right to freely choose which political party or candidate to support without fear of punishment or intimidation.

It said Buba’s remarks, reportedly made on August 29, were “reckless and irresponsible” and called on authorities to act to prevent impunity.

“Ahead of 2027 elections, some politicians are already overheating the polity through threats and intimidation directed at opponents. This is already creating a toxic climate of fear,” the organisation said.

Amnesty also urged political parties and politicians to publicly condemn statements capable of promoting hatred, discrimination, hostility or violence.

“Election is not war and those who belong or choose to vote for an opposition political party are not the enemy,” it said, stressing that political choices are protected by Nigeria’s Constitution, the Electoral Act and international law.

The controversy comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with Amnesty warning that threats against political opponents could undermine democratic participation and freedom of political choice.