DSS Reacts as Bauchi Senator Faces Fresh Banditry Claims

The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed that it is investigating fresh allegations linking Bauchi Senator Shehu Buba to banditry, while the lawmaker has rejected the claims and accused his critics of attempting to damage his reputation.

The latest controversy follows allegations made publicly by a man identified as Hassan, who accused Buba of having links with criminal elements operating in northern Nigeria.

Hassan made the claims during an interview with social media influencer D English Alhaji Media. He alleged, among other things, that people associated with notorious bandit kingpin Dogo Gide were brought to Abuja for specialised training through an aide linked to the senator. Premium Times reported the allegations and Buba’s subsequent response. citeturn0search2

Buba, who represents Bauchi South Senatorial District, denied the accusations. He said Hassan was previously someone he had assisted with his education after being introduced to him as an orphan.

The senator alleged that Hassan later used access to his residence to obtain photographs and videos which were subsequently used in what he described as a campaign against him. citeturn0search2

DSS confirms investigation

When contacted by Saturday PUNCH over the latest allegations, a DSS spokesperson said the investigation would be made public “at the appropriate time.”

The agency did not disclose details of the investigation or indicate whether the allegations against the senator had been established. citeturn0news0

The latest controversy is not the first time Buba has faced allegations concerning banditry.

In 2024, reports emerged that the DSS was investigating claims concerning the senator’s alleged connection to suspected bandit Abubakar Idris. The allegations centred on claims that the suspect had been facilitated for the 2024 Hajj through a legislative aide linked to Buba. Buba denied wrongdoing at the time. citeturn0news11

Dalung demands answers

Former Minister of Youth and Sports Solomon Dalung has called on the DSS to disclose the outcome of its investigation into the allegations.

Dalung argued that the public deserves clarity over whether the allegations were investigated and what the security agency established.

He also called for greater scrutiny because of Buba’s previous position as Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence. Daily Post reported that Dalung made the call in response to the renewed controversy. citeturn0news17

BusinessDay also reported that the latest allegations have generated debate in northern Nigeria, with political actors and security observers divided over the claims. citeturn0news4

Allegations remain unproven

Despite the renewed attention, no court judgment or publicly announced official finding has established that Senator Buba sponsored or supported banditry.

The senator continues to deny the accusations, while the DSS has indicated that its investigation is still ongoing.

The development comes as political activity increases ahead of the 2027 elections. Buba, who has moved to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), is also the party’s governorship candidate in Bauchi State, making the controversy politically sensitive. citeturn0search2

For now, the Bauchi Senator Shehu Buba controversy remains unresolved pending the outcome of the DSS investigation and any further official action.

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