2027 Poll: Public Anger Trails Borno Commissioner’s Flogging Threat

Fresh details as emerged as Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has come under public scrutiny following his controversial threat to “flog” Nigerians who refuse to support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

Buba made the remark in a video that has gone viral on social media, where he spoke at a campaign inauguration organised by the Tinubu City Boy Movement, a political support group campaigning for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

The commissioner said political engagement could involve persuasion or force, claiming that while they were currently persuading people to support the APC, some critics had continued to attack the party and its supporters on TikTok.

“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,” Buba said.

He added, “This government is our government; follow us and enjoy honey. As for those who refuse to follow us, they will be flogged.”

The comments have triggered reactions from members of the public, with many expressing concern over what they described as the use of threatening language by political leaders ahead of the 2027 elections.

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Critics argue that political office holders should encourage citizens to participate freely in the democratic process rather than threaten or intimidate those who support opposition parties.

The controversy has also revived memories of recent political statements that generated public concern over the tone of political campaigns in Nigeria.

Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Samuel Shekwolo, recently faced criticism after reportedly telling residents who did not support the APC to leave the council.

Similarly, Senator Francis Fadahunsi was questioned by the Osun State Police Command following controversial comments concerning members of the Accord Party ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election. He later clarified that he was referring to defeating the party through votes, not physical violence.

Against this backdrop, Buba’s latest comments have further fuelled concerns about political rhetoric ahead of 2027, with members of the public calling on political leaders to promote peaceful campaigns and respect citizens’ freedom to choose their preferred candidates and parties.

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