Bauchi senator expresses disappointed over withdrawal of chieftaincy title after comments on Gov. Bala Mohammed

Senator Shehu Umar has expressed his shock and disappointment following the Bauchi Emirate’s decision to withdraw his chieftaincy title of “Mujaddadin” Bauchi.

The decision, according to the Emirate, was based on allegations that Umar insulted Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.

In a letter addressed to the Emirate on Thursday, Senator Umar stated that while he respects and accepts the Emirate’s decision, he remains committed to a policy of constructive criticism. He emphasized that he refrains from using abusive language in his public discourse.

The controversy arose from Senator Umar’s response to comments made by Governor Bala Mohammed, which Umar perceived as derogatory towards President Bola Tinubu.

The Senator, who also serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, explained that his remarks were intended to defend the President against what he saw as a deliberate attempt to damage Tinubu’s reputation and incite public discontent.

Umar criticized Governor Mohammed’s comments, describing them as confrontational, accusatory, abusive, and defamatory.

He asserted that his intervention was necessary to counteract what he considered an unjust attack on the Nigerian leader.

The withdrawal of his chieftaincy title marks a significant moment in the ongoing political tensions in Bauchi State, highlighting the delicate balance between traditional authority and political discourse.

“I received with utter shock a letter dated August 14, informing me of the Bauchi Emirate Council’s decision to withdraw my traditional title of Mujaddadin Bauchi.

“This decision was made over an allegation that I insulted Gov. Bala Mohammed during a rally.

“Meanwhile, I must state that during the recent APC campaign flag-off, I responded to the Governor’s disparaging comments on President Bola Tinubu, which I felt were calculated to expose the President to public contempt and disaffection,’’ the senator said.