By: Dr. James Bwala
The recent conduct of Sainna Buba, the Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, has sparked significant concern and debate. His incendiary remarks threatening those who oppose his political stance — “Whoever shows us a finger, we are ready to cut off his fingers,” and suggesting that dissenters “will be flogged” — are not only alarming but also deeply damaging to the democratic fabric and political culture in Borno State and Nigeria at large.
Such rhetoric undermines democratic principles, tarnishes the image of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and threatens political stability ahead of the 2027 elections. An examination of the implications of Buba’s statements, the dangers inherent in inflammatory political language, and the wider context of governance in Borno under Governor Babagana Zulum shows that his utterances demand urgent political recalibration and ethical accountability to restore decorum and foster inclusive engagement across Borno and Nigeria.
First, the role of a public official, particularly a commissioner, extends beyond political allegiance. It demands leadership marked by responsibility, maturity, and respect for the rule of law. Buba’s language, which evokes physical violence against political opponents, crosses the line from robust political debate into outright intimidation and incitement.
In a democratic context, no politician — especially one holding executive office — should resort to threats of physical harm to enforce compliance or support. Such utterances erode public trust in governance and raise legitimate fears about the safety and rights of citizens who hold dissenting views. The commissioner’s choice of words reflects poor judgment and a troubling disregard for democratic norms where freedom of expression and political plurality must be respected.
Buba’s comments are particularly dangerous given Borno’s fragile socio-political environment. Having endured prolonged insurgency and communal strife, the state requires leaders who promote unity, healing, and civility rather than exacerbating divisions through reckless rhetoric. By invoking violent imagery, the commissioner risks inflaming tensions among youth and political factions, potentially inciting unrest or violent clashes.
This posture is counterproductive to ongoing efforts by Governor Zulum’s administration to rebuild communities, foster peace, and attract investment for development. Instead of serving as a catalyst for cohesion, Buba’s remarks threaten to undermine decades of painstaking work to stabilize the state and promote harmonious coexistence.
From a political strategy standpoint, the commissioner’s statements also jeopardize the image of the ruling APC in Borno and nationally. Political parties thrive on credibility, discipline, and positive public engagement. When a prominent member publicly threatens violence, it undermines the party’s commitment to democratic values and good governance.
This is particularly sensitive as the APC positions itself for the crucial 2027 presidential elections, where internal cohesion and broad-based appeal are critical. Political observers are right to question whether such inflammatory rhetoric is an isolated lapse or symptomatic of broader issues within the party’s ranks in Borno. It raises uncomfortable questions about whether the commissioner’s approach aligns with the administration’s vision, or if it inadvertently damages the party’s reputation and electoral prospects.
Furthermore, the suggestion that Buba’s speech might be part of a political gambit aimed at either undermining Governor Zulum’s administration or positioning against President Tinubu’s 2027 ambitions adds another layer of complexity. If his comments represent factional posturing rather than the official stance of government, then they expose fractures within the ruling elite that citizens cannot ignore.
Political competition within the same party should be conducted through structured dialogue and policy debate, not through threats and fear-mongering. This intra-party discord risks creating a toxic environment that stifles constructive engagement and discourages active participation by young people who are critical to the political future of Borno and Nigeria.
Critics may argue that high-stakes political campaigns often involve fiery rhetoric and that politicians sometimes resort to exaggerated statements to galvanize support. While political bravado is not uncommon, there remains a clear boundary between rallying cries and incitements to violence. Effective leadership entails harnessing passion while maintaining decorum, and encouraging debate without sowing fear. The commissioner’s language violates this balance, demonstrating recklessness rather than strategic acumen. Leaders are expected to unify rather than divide, and to inspire adherence through ideas and policies, not through threats. This is especially critical in a democracy where political contestation must occur within constitutional frameworks and respect for human rights.
The broader lesson from this episode is the urgent need for political actors, civil society, and the media to insist on ethical standards and accountability in public discourse. Public officials like Sainna Buba must be reminded that their words carry weight far beyond immediate crowds and social media echo chambers. Training, counseling, and strict regulatory frameworks governing political conduct could help mitigate the risk of such damaging pronouncements. Furthermore, party leadership must act decisively to censure or discipline members who engage in inflammatory behavior in order to preserve public confidence and safeguard democratic processes.
Buba’s reckless and violent threats against political opponents are a stark reminder of the challenges facing Nigeria’s political culture, particularly in sensitive regions like Borno State. Such conduct undermines democracy, threatens social harmony, tarnishes the ruling party’s image, and risks destabilizing the political landscape as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections. It is imperative that political leaders and institutions reaffirm their commitment to peaceful, respectful, and inclusive politics.
Only by rejecting intimidation and fostering genuine dialogue can Borno, and Nigeria as a whole, achieve sustainable development and democratic consolidation. The Borno Commissioner must therefore be counseled, held accountable, and guided toward embracing the virtues of responsible leadership that the people deserve.
Dr. James Bwala writes from Abuja.
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EDITOR’S NOTE:
This article is an opinion piece and reflects the personal views of the author. It does not necessarily represent the editorial position of this publication.
