I Have Nothing to Hide: Senator Shehu Buba Denies Banditry, Terrorism Links, Submits Self to DSS, Police, DIA

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Senator Shehu Buba Umar has vehemently denied allegations linking him to banditry, terrorism financing, kidnapping, and other violent crimes, describing the claims as “politically motivated smear campaigns” that have persisted since 2014.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the Bauchi State lawmaker said the allegations had reached a point where “silence is no longer sufficient,” particularly given their implications for national security and public confidence in security institutions.

“I categorically and unequivocally deny these allegations. I have never sponsored, financed, armed, facilitated, or supported banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, or any criminal organization or activities whatsoever,” Umar declared.

The senator, who previously served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, announced that he had voluntarily submitted himself to the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Police Force, and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for thorough investigation.

Through his legal team led by Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Umar said formal letters had been written to the three agencies requesting comprehensive investigations into every allegation against him.

“I have nothing to hide and I have nothing to fear from any legitimate investigation,” he stated. “I do not believe allegations of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping against a serving senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria should be allowed to remain matters of social media speculations. These are serious crimes; they should be investigated seriously.”

The senator issued a direct challenge to his accusers, inviting politicians, activists, social media influencers, and journalists to present any credible evidence to security agencies rather than hiding behind “edited videos, insinuations, propaganda, or anonymous allegations.”

He also revealed that he had made himself available to international bodies, including Amnesty International, and expressed willingness to cooperate with all relevant security agencies.

Umar stated that if a prima facie case is established against him based on credible evidence, he is prepared to face prosecution, and would accept the consequences prescribed by law if found guilty by a competent court.

Reflecting on his tenure as Senate Committee Chairman on National Security and Intelligence, Umar noted that his legitimate engagements with military, intelligence, and security agencies were now being “distorted and weaponized” to create a false impression of relationships with criminal elements.

The senator disclosed that he had previously pursued lawful remedies against his accusers, including a September 2025 petition to the Nigerian Police Force that resulted in criminal proceedings currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

He further revealed that one Hassan Sani Hussain, believed to be behind several allegations, is reportedly operating from Niger Republic, with the matter reported for INTERPOL intervention and legal counsel engaged in Niger Republic to pursue appropriate measures.

“I seek no special treatment. Let every allegation be subjected to impartial scrutiny, let every piece of evidence be examined, and let the truth prevail,” Umar concluded.