Borno commissioner apologises, retracts threat to flog opposition supporters

The Borno State Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation, Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has apologised and withdrawn a controversial comment in which he appeared to threaten opposition supporters with punishment for refusing to back the All Progressives Congress.

Buba had sparked public reactions after a video from an empowerment programme in Maiduguri circulated online, showing him making remarks about how supporters who failed to align with the government would be treated.

In the video, the commissioner suggested that those who opposed the government could face punitive treatment, including being “flogged.”

He also made comments about political confrontation, saying that those who challenged the government would receive a similar response.

However, while speaking to journalists in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Buba apologised for the remarks and formally retracted them.

The commissioner said his comments were not intended to threaten anyone or undermine the constitutional rights of Borno residents to freedom of choice and association.

He explained that he had previously clarified that the statement was not meant to be interpreted literally but acknowledged that it had continued to generate concern among members of the public.

Buba said he regretted any offence caused by the comment and apologised to the people of Borno State and others who may have been affected by it.

He further distanced the remark from the APC and the administration of Governor Babagana Zulum, stressing that it did not reflect their principles or position.

According to him, the state government and the ruling party respect the rights of citizens and remain committed to democratic values.

The commissioner also praised the Zulum administration for what he described as its commitment to democratic principles over the years.

He assured residents that the government would continue to respect all sections of society, particularly young people who constitute an important part of its support base.

Buba’s apology follows growing public attention surrounding his earlier remarks, which were widely interpreted as a threat against political opponents and those unwilling to support the ruling party.