Shehu Buba’s Aide Quits Senate Job as Fresh Banditry Allegations Rock Bauchi Senator

The Senior Legislative Aide to Senator Shehu Buba Umar, representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, Abba Aliyu Tilde, has resigned from his position amid renewed allegations linking the lawmaker to banditry and terrorism.

Tilde announced his resignation in a letter dated September 6, 2026, stating that his decision took immediate effect. However, the former aide did not accuse Senator Buba of involvement in banditry or state that the allegations against the senator were responsible for his departure.

Instead, Tilde attributed his resignation to what he described as a deterioration in the relationship between him and the senator, particularly involving communication, mutual respect and trust. He said he had served Buba with dedication and commitment but had reached a point where he could no longer continue under the circumstances.

One incident Tilde specifically highlighted was a recent visit by Senator Buba to his ward, where the senator reportedly met with residents without informing him beforehand. Tilde said he considered the development disrespectful, particularly because of his position and relationship with people in the ward.

The former aide maintained that the incident was not isolated, claiming that other experiences had also contributed to his feeling that his role and contributions were no longer sufficiently valued. He said an effective working relationship in public service requires communication, mutual respect, trust and recognition of each party’s responsibilities.

Tilde’s resignation has nevertheless attracted attention because it occurred at a time when Senator Buba is facing a fresh wave of allegations concerning alleged links to banditry. The controversy intensified following the circulation of videos and social-media claims alleging that suspected bandit leaders had visited the senator’s residence.

The latest allegations were also amplified by an interview involving a content creator known as D English Alhaji and a man identified as Hassan Husseini. Among the claims made was an allegation that people associated with notorious bandit leader Dogo Gide were brought to Abuja for specialised training allegedly facilitated by an aide linked to Senator Buba. These remain allegations and have not been established as facts by a court.

Senator Buba has strongly rejected the allegations, describing the claims and circulating materials as fabricated, politically motivated and part of an attempt to damage his reputation. He has also challenged the authenticity of some of the videos circulating online and said he has taken legal steps against individuals he believes are responsible for the allegations.

The senator has faced similar accusations since 2024, including claims surrounding his sponsorship of individuals for pilgrimage. Buba previously explained that beneficiaries of his sponsorship initiatives were recommended by traditional and community leaders in his constituency and denied knowingly sponsoring bandits.

Buba, who is also the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) governorship candidate in Bauchi State for the 2027 election, has continued to maintain that the allegations are part of a political campaign against him. He recently vowed not to be intimidated or silenced by what he described as sustained media attacks.

Meanwhile, Tilde has maintained that his resignation should be understood within the context of his deteriorating working relationship with the senator rather than as an endorsement of the allegations against Buba. He said he was leaving with a clear conscience, thanked the senator for the opportunity to serve and wished him success in his future endeavours.