The Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has come under scrutiny following a viral video in which he threatened to flog Nigerians who refuse to support the ruling All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Buba made the controversial remarks in Hausa language while speaking at the inauguration of a campaign event, organised by the Tinubu City Boy Movement, a political support group advocating the re-election of President Bola Tinubu.
In the video circulating on social media, the commissioner suggested that political persuasion could sometimes give way to force while addressing individuals he accused of criticising the APC on TikTok.
He said those who supported the party would benefit from the government, while those who refused to align with it would face consequences.
“Sometimes things go smoothly, sometimes it goes with persuasion, and sometimes it goes with force,” Buba said.
He added, “As for those who refuse to follow us, they will be flogged.”
The commissioner also urged supporters to expect campaign materials from the party, saying they would benefit from them.
The remarks have raised concerns over the tone of political campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly amid growing calls for politicians and public officials to avoid statements that could encourage intimidation or political violence.
Buba’s comments come against the backdrop of other controversial political statements in recent weeks.
The chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Samuel Shekwolo, was recently reported to have warned residents who did not support the APC to leave the council ahead of the 2027 elections.
Similarly, Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District, faced criticism over comments concerning members of the Accord Party ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election in Osun State.
Fadahunsi was subsequently invited by the Osun State Police Command after Governor Ademola Adeleke called for his arrest and investigation. The senator later denied advocating violence, maintaining that his remarks had been misconstrued and that he was referring to defeating the Accord Party through votes.
With political activities already intensifying ahead of the 2027 elections, the latest controversy has renewed concerns about the need for political actors to promote peaceful participation and respect Nigerians’ right to freely choose their preferred candidates and political parties.
The 2027 general elections are expected to be closely contested, with the APC and opposition parties already mobilising supporters across the country.
