The Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has sparked widespread condemnation after allegedly threatening political opponents and residents who refuse to support the All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Buba reportedly made the remarks at a political campaign inauguration organised by the City Boy Movement in Borno State, where he warned residents against opposing the ruling party.
In a video circulating on social media, the commissioner was heard warning that those who challenged the government or refused to support the APC would face punishment.
“Those who follow us will enjoy the honey; if you refuse, then you will be flogged,” he was quoted as saying. He also allegedly threatened to “break” the fingers of people who continued to oppose the government.
The remarks have generated criticism from civil society organisations and political observers, who argue that such language is inappropriate for a serving government official and could contribute to an atmosphere of fear and intimidation ahead of the 2027 elections.
Amnesty International Nigeria has called for a thorough investigation into the comments, describing the alleged threat as unlawful and warning that Nigerians cannot legitimately be punished for their political choices.
The rights organisation said political opponents should not be treated as enemies and stressed that citizens have the constitutional right to support whichever political party or candidate they choose.
“Election is not war and those who belong or choose to vote for an opposition political party are not the enemy,” Amnesty said in its reaction to the controversy.
The organisation also warned political parties and their supporters against rhetoric capable of encouraging hatred, discrimination, hostility or violence during the electoral period.
The controversy comes as Nigerian political parties and aspirants intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections. With campaigns and political mobilisation already increasing in several states, concerns over inflammatory statements and threats have become a recurring feature of the emerging political contest.
Borno is particularly sensitive to such concerns because the state has experienced years of insurgency, displacement and insecurity. The region’s political environment has consequently remained closely linked to questions of security, stability and the protection of civilians.
Critics argue that inflammatory political language from public officials can have serious consequences in such an environment, particularly when supporters interpret threats literally.
Buba’s comments have also renewed discussion about the responsibilities of public office holders during election campaigns. Although politicians are entitled to campaign for their parties and persuade voters, critics maintain that such activities must remain within the boundaries of the law and respect citizens’ freedom of political choice.
The commissioner is an ally of Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum and has been involved in political mobilisation for the APC. His reported remarks have therefore attracted additional attention because they came from a member of the state executive.
The incident also recalls previous controversies involving Nigerian politicians accused of using threatening or inflammatory language during election campaigns.
Political observers have repeatedly warned that rhetoric involving physical punishment, violence or threats against opponents can deepen political divisions and potentially encourage supporters to confront rivals.
The 2027 election is expected to be highly competitive, with the APC facing challenges from several opposition platforms seeking to consolidate support across the country.
For opposition supporters in Borno, the commissioner’s alleged comments have raised concerns about whether political competition will be conducted peacefully and whether citizens will be able to make independent choices without intimidation.
For the APC, the controversy presents another test of its response to inflammatory statements by party-aligned officials. Political parties have frequently pledged to promote peaceful elections, but critics argue that such commitments must be accompanied by consequences when members make threatening statements.
The allegations against Buba have not, however, resulted in a reported conviction or judicial finding against him. The full context of the remarks and the circumstances surrounding the video would need to be established through an appropriate investigation.
Nevertheless, the controversy has placed renewed attention on the importance of responsible political communication as Nigeria moves towards the 2027 elections.
With political campaigns expected to become more intense in the months ahead, civil society organisations are urging politicians to focus on policies, development and issues affecting voters rather than threats against political opponents.
The central concern raised by the episode is whether Nigerians can exercise their democratic rights freely and without fear.
As preparations for 2027 gather momentum, the Borno controversy serves as another reminder that political competition must not be allowed to turn into intimidation or violence, and that the right to disagree remains fundamental to democratic governance.
