Nigerian social media personality and whistleblower John Aruma Azi, popularly known as D English Alhaji, says he fears for his life following renewed allegations linking Senator Shehu Buba Umar of Bauchi South to alleged support for criminal activities in northern Nigeria.
Alhaji expressed the concern in a video after an individual identified as Hassan publicly named Senator Buba in connection with earlier allegations concerning banditry and the alleged training of criminal elements.
The claims have generated fresh controversy around the senator, who has rejected allegations that he supports or facilitates banditry.
Fresh Allegations Against Senator Buba
The latest controversy followed an interview conducted by D English Alhaji with Hassan, a local resident who had previously referred to a serving senator without identifying him.
During the interview, Hassan named Senator Shehu Buba Umar as the politician he had been referring to.
He reportedly alleged that individuals connected to wanted bandit kingpin Dogo Gide had received assistance and that an aide associated with Senator Buba was involved in facilitating activities linked to the alleged network.
These allegations have not been established by a court.
Alhaji Says He Is Afraid
Following the renewed attention surrounding the allegations, D English Alhaji expressed concern about what could happen to him because of his public activities.
In the emotional video, he suggested that he understood the risks associated with speaking publicly about sensitive security matters.
He said that if he eventually loses his life because of his activities, he would consider that he had already played his part.
Senator Buba Rejects Allegations
Senator Buba has denied allegations that he backs banditry or facilitates criminal activity.
In an interview with Albarka Radio in Bauchi, the senator reportedly explained that his relationship with the individual behind some of the accusations initially involved efforts to help an orphan obtain an education.
The senator’s response has added another dimension to the controversy, with both sides presenting competing accounts of their interactions.
Allegations Require Investigation
The accusations involve serious claims concerning terrorism and banditry sponsorship and therefore require evidence and proper investigation by the relevant authorities.
At this stage, the allegations should not be treated as proof of criminal conduct.
What We Know: Fresh allegations have been made publicly against Senator Shehu Buba, while the senator has denied supporting or facilitating banditry.
What Remains Unclear: Whether law-enforcement authorities will investigate the latest allegations and what evidence may emerge.