Bauchi, Nigeria – The Bauchi Emirate Council has withdrawn the traditional title of ‘Majidadin Bauchi’ from Senator Shehu Buba Umar following allegations that he insulted and criticized Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed. The decision was announced in a letter dated August 14, 2024, signed by Nasiru Musa on behalf of the Emirate Council’s secretary, following a council meeting where the senator’s conduct was deliberated.
Senator Umar, a member of the All Progressive Congress (APC) representing Bauchi South senatorial district, recently accused Governor Mohammed of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of diverting palliative items provided by the APC-led federal government. During a press briefing last week, Umar claimed that essential supplies meant to alleviate economic hardship, including rice, corn, and fertilizer, were allegedly sold by the state government instead of being distributed to those in need.
“The hardship is caused by the PDP. If anyone says it is the policy of the All Progressives Congress, that is very misleading and fictitious. It is fake and not true. The Federal Government, under the leadership of Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu, is doing everything possible to rebuild this country,” Senator Umar stated.
He further questioned the state’s handling of federal interventions, saying, “For example, let me tell you about the recent interventions of the 20 trucks of rice that were given to Bauchi State to distribute to the populace in the state. Where are the bags of rice?”
The Bauchi Emirate Council responded by stripping Umar of his traditional title, stating that his actions were inconsistent with the values and traditions upheld by the Emirate. This decision marks the second time in recent history that the council has withdrawn a traditional title from a politician. In November 2023, former Bauchi lawmaker Salisu Zakari lost his title after criticizing a state government project—a planned 11-kilometre road from Ningi to Gudduba, valued at N10.3 billion.
By Gabriel Ani
