By Khalid Idris Doya The Bauchi State Muslim Parliament has called for a strategic shift in tackling Nigeria’s security challenges, advocati...
By Khalid Idris Doya
The Bauchi State Muslim Parliament has called for a strategic shift in tackling Nigeria’s security challenges, advocating for dialogue, economic empowerment, and community reconciliation alongside military efforts. It also strongly defended Senator Shehu Buba Umar against recent allegations linking him to banditry, describing such claims as baseless and politically motivated.
Speaking during a press conference held over the weekend in Bauchi, the Parliament, led by Engr. Ahmad Yusuf stressed the need for persuasive, non-violent strategies in confronting insecurity across the country.
Citing the successful use of dialogue and community engagement in resolving the Niger Delta crisis, the Parliament noted that Nigeria’s multifaceted security threats require both kinetic and non-kinetic responses.
Engr. Yusuf stated that these very strategies are the ones Senator Shehu Buba Umar—Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence—has consistently promoted as viable solutions to the current wave of insecurity plaguing the nation.
"The approach of blending dialogue with appropriate force is essential in transforming the security landscape and bringing lasting peace and stability to Nigeria," Yusuf said.
He added that the Parliament firmly supports peacebuilding initiatives from any region of the country and views reconciliation as a critical element in achieving national unity.
The Parliament also condemned recent smear campaigns targeting Senator Buba, who represents Bauchi South Senatorial District, describing them as calculated attempts to undermine his credibility and distract from his achievements.
"We unequivocally condemn those engaging in a vicious smear campaign against Distinguished Senator Shehu Buba Umar. As Chairman of a sensitive committee, his role demands the highest level of trust and integrity," Yusuf stated.
He questioned the credibility of the accusations, noting that no responsible security establishment or presidency would permit a senator to operate outside the bounds of national interest.
“Would the Nigerian security establishment, with all its professionalism and intelligence, allow Senator Buba to engage in any clandestine activity that could undermine national security? Would the Presidency look the other way while a senator single-handedly jeopardises the peace of the nation?” he asked rhetorically.
The Parliament maintained that Senator Buba has been consistent in his commitment to national development, security, and the well-being of his constituents, and that his political record speaks volumes about his integrity.
“Senator Buba’s track record has earned him public respect and recognition. His dedication to service and national development is evident to all progressive groups and organisations across this region,” Yusuf said.
He described the allegations against the senator as a textbook case of character assassination aimed at distracting public attention from his performance and eroding the trust placed in him by his constituents.
In conclusion, the Parliament emphasised that its intervention is rooted in its Islamic perspective and its responsibility as a stakeholder in Bauchi South. It reaffirmed its unwavering support for Senator Shehu Buba and urged Nigerians to resist misinformation.
“As representatives of the Muslim communities, we owe it to the nation to speak the truth, dispel misinformation, and defend the integrity of those working tirelessly to secure and unify Nigeria,” Engr. Yusuf concluded.
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