The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly launched an investigation into Senator Shehu Buba, who represents Bauchi South Senatorial District, over his alleged connection to a notorious bandit, Abubakar Idris. This follows accusations that the senator facilitated Idris’s registration for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage.
DSS Probes Alleged Bandit Registration for Hajj
A security source, speaking anonymously to THISDAY in Abuja on Tuesday, revealed that a security report regarding Senator Buba’s involvement in the matter had already been submitted to President Bola Tinubu. The report alleges that the senator, through one of his aides, registered Abubakar Idris, a suspected bandit, for the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
DSS operatives reportedly stormed the Bauchi State Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board during the 2024 Pilgrims Operations to investigate the matter. They sought the e-passports of Idris and another individual, Zainab Aliyu Gado, who were both registered as intending pilgrims.
Bandit Arrested, Investigation Ongoing
While Zainab had already traveled for Hajj, Idris’s e-passport was retrieved by the DSS. Idris has since been arrested and is currently in DSS custody, facing allegations of involvement in banditry and kidnapping in Zamfara State. The source further implicated Yahaya Ibrahim, a Senior Legislative Aide to Senator Buba, in facilitating the registration.
The source expressed concerns over the senator’s potential involvement, suggesting that Buba may have enabled and supported criminal elements like Idris. The investigation is ongoing, with the DSS aiming to arrest and prosecute all those connected to the case.
Denials from Senator’s Camp
Repeated attempts to contact Senator Buba for comments were unsuccessful. However, his Senior Legislative Aide, Hassan Abdullahi, strongly denied any involvement in the saga. Abdullahi asserted he had no connection to the Bauchi Pilgrim Welfare Board or any criminal activities.
“I don’t know the said Idris or anyone involved in criminal activities in Bauchi State. Whoever links me with any criminal is a liar,” Abdullahi stated.
Senator’s Background
Senator Shehu Buba, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), is currently serving his first term in the 10th National Assembly. Before his election, he held various roles, including serving as Special Assistant to former Governor Isa Yuguda and Special Adviser to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Known for his efforts to uplift his constituency, Senator Buba has been involved in youth and women empowerment programs, poverty reduction initiatives, and infrastructure development. He has also played a key role in providing palliatives to mitigate the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
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DSS investigates Bauchi Senator Shehu Buba over allegations of facilitating a bandit’s registration for Hajj. The senator’s aide denies any involvement. Investigation continues.
