Amnesty International Demands Probe Into Nigerian Official's Violence Threats

Amnesty International is calling on Nigerian authorities to investigate Sainna Buba, the Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, following a viral video of him threatening political opponents. During a campaign inauguration for the Tinubu City Boy Movement on August 29, 2026, Buba warned that those who refuse to support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would be flogged. He specifically threatened to cut off or break the fingers of those who oppose the government, claiming that government benefits would be reserved only for supporters.

Amnesty International described the remarks as reckless and irresponsible, stating that such intimidation violates the Nigerian Constitution, the Electoral Act, and international law. The organization warned that Buba's rhetoric is creating a toxic climate of fear ahead of the 2027 general elections.

These threats follow similar rhetoric from Danjuma Shekwolo, Chairman of Kuje Area Council, who told residents to either vote for the APC in 2027 or leave the area. Neither Buba nor the Borno State Government has issued a response to the controversy.