Police probe Borno commissioner, Osun senator, Kuje chairman over alleged inciting remarks

The Nigeria Police Force has opened an investigation into alleged inciting remarks made by the Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba.

The police also confirmed that Senator Francis Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East, and the Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Danjuma Shekwolo, are being investigated over similar allegations.

The development follows controversial comments allegedly made by the three politicians.

Buba was accused of threatening to flog residents and cut off the hands of those who refused to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

Shekwolo also reportedly told residents of Kuje Area Council that they must support the APC in 2027 or leave the council.

Meanwhile, Fadahunsi was seen in a viral video ahead of the Osun governorship election, where he allegedly threatened members of the Accord Party.

Speaking at a joint security briefing with Defence Correspondents in Abuja on Tuesday, the Force spokesperson, Chief Superintendent of Police Anietie Iniedu, said making inciting comments, particularly about elections, amounts to a criminal offence.

Iniedu said the police had already questioned Fadahunsi over the alleged threat against Accord Party members.

He said, “On the issue of the Senator in Osun State, the Council Chairman in FCT and the Borno Commissioner’s inciting comments, I was part of the team that questioned the distinguished Senator in Osun State. The law is very clear when it comes to inciting. It is criminal to incite members of the public, especially as you comment on the electoral process.

“The Nigeria Police Force is responsible for maintaining law and order and we will not shy away from this responsibility, no matter whose ox is gored.”

According to him, “Every inciting statement listed here is under investigation presently and the outcome will be released. We want to also use this opportunity to advise and caution all political stakeholders to desist from such comments.”

The police also called on members of the public to assist investigators by providing relevant information and evidence that could help in prosecuting suspected offenders.

Iniedu identified the failure of witnesses to come forward as one of the major problems affecting criminal prosecution in Nigeria.

The police spokesperson urged people with information about the alleged incidents to come forward without fear, saying their cooperation would help investigators and prosecutors build stronger cases.