RismadarVoice Reporters
August 31, 2026
Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has sparked controversy after threatening to flog people who refuse to support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Buba made the remarks in a video circulating on social media on Monday during the inauguration of a campaign event organised by the Tinubu City Boy Movement, a political support group backing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
The commissioner said political engagement could involve persuasion or force, claiming that supporters of the APC would benefit from the party’s administration.
“In politics, sometimes things go smoothly, sometimes it goes with persuasion, and sometimes it goes with force,” Buba said.
He alleged that some individuals had been attacking the APC on TikTok and warned against what he described as malicious criticism.
“If they point fingers at us, we will point fingers at them; if they point fingers at us with malicious intent, then we will hold that finger and break it,” he said.
Buba added: “This government is our government; follow us and enjoy honey. As for those who refuse to follow us, they will be flogged.”
He also urged residents to support the APC, saying campaign materials and other benefits would be made available to supporters.
The remarks come amid growing political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections and renewed concerns over inflammatory rhetoric by political actors.
A similar controversy recently emerged in the Federal Capital Territory, where the chairman of Kuje Area Council, Samuel Shekwolo, was reported to have told residents who would not support the APC to leave the council ahead of the elections.
Political tensions have also been heightened by previous comments from Senator Francis Fadahunsi concerning members of the Accord Party during the 2026 Osun State governorship election campaign. Fadahunsi later denied advocating violence, saying his comments had been misunderstood.
