Bauchi group rebuts Sowore’s allegations, defends state officials

By Ahmed Ahmed

The Bauchi Concerned Group (BCG) has firmly rejected allegations recently leveled by activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, against prominent Bauchi State figures, describing them as false, politically motivated, and aimed at distracting from the state’s development achievements.

At a press conference held Thursday in Bauchi, the group’s Chief Convener, Nasir Abdullahi, condemned the accusations targeting Dr. Aisha Bala Mohammed, Engr. Shamsuddeen Bala Mohammed, Hon. Justice Kawu Yarima, and Chief Judge Hon. Justice Rabi Talatu Umar.

Abdullahi defended Engr. Shamsuddeen’s decision to pursue legal redress against Dr. Abubakar Ahmad, stressing that the Constitution guarantees individuals the right to seek protection from defamation.

He clarified that Dr. Ahmad’s remand was a lawful decision by a magistrate court, not a personal vendetta, and dismissed claims of abuse of power.

On bail denial by Justice Kawu Yarima, the group emphasized that granting bail lies solely within judicial discretion.

It advised Sowore and others aggrieved by court rulings to use appropriate legal channels rather than engaging in media sensationalism.

The BCG also criticized accusations against Chief Judge Rabi Talatu Umar over alleged land allocations, noting that mere possession of a site plan does not prove wrongdoing.

It affirmed that judicial officers have equal constitutional rights, including land ownership.

On the First Lady’s farmland, the group maintained the acquisition was legal and in line with her rights as a citizen.

Similarly, they stated no law prohibits Shamsuddeen from conducting legitimate business, provided due process is followed.

The group further defended Finance Commissioner Dr. Yakubu Adamu, asserting that the attacks were politically driven.

BCG demanded a public apology from Sowore and warned of legal action if he fails to retract his claims.

“We won’t allow Bauchi’s progress to be derailed by unfounded smear campaigns,” Abdullahi declared.