The Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has threatened to flog people who refuse to support the ruling All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Buba made the controversial remark 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, who also urged residents to support the APC, said those who opposed the party would not enjoy the benefits of the government.
He said political engagement could involve persuasion or force, claiming that some individuals had been attacking the APC on TikTok.
“As for some people who do not deserve us to call their names. In politics, sometimes things go smoothly, sometimes it goes with persuasion, and sometimes it goes with force.
“Right now, we are being persuasive, but we’ve noticed they are throwing jabs at us on TikTok. Well, it is not as if we are inefficient at blowing the whistle on politics.
“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.
“This government is our government; follow us and enjoy honey. As for those who refuse to follow us, they will be flogged,” Buba said.
He also told supporters that campaign materials would be provided for the state, urging them to take advantage of the benefits associated with supporting the ruling party.
“We should all be aware that they will bring campaign materials for the state for us all to benefit,” he added.
Buba’s comments come amid growing political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections, with politicians and support groups across the country already beginning campaigns and grassroots mobilisation for their preferred candidates.
The remarks have also drawn attention to the tone of political rhetoric ahead of the elections, particularly concerns that threats and inflammatory statements by political actors could heighten tensions and undermine voters’ freedom to support candidates and political parties of their choice.
The commissioner’s comments are not the first recent instance of a political figure facing criticism over remarks perceived as threatening towards political opponents.
The latest comments by the Borno commissioner have further fuelled debate over the conduct of political campaigns and the need for political actors to avoid statements capable of intimidating voters or escalating tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.
Borno Commissioner Buba Threatens Opponents With Violence Over APC Support
Sainna Buba, the Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, has sparked outrage after allegedly threatening political opponents with physical violence during a political campaign event. pic.twitter.com/jjX0ErpVtg
— torchlightnews (@torchlightnews_) August 31, 2026