Volunteer Group Withdraws Support from Senator Shehu Buba’s Gubernatorial Ambition Over Neglect and Lack of Recognition
By Abdulwahab Muhammad, Bauchi
A once-vibrant volunteer group that championed the gubernatorial ambition of Senator Shehu Buba Umar has formally withdrawn its support, citing neglect, lack of appreciation, and failure to acknowledge their grassroots medical outreach activities carried out in the Senator's name.
Comrade Yusuf Aliyu Fada, Chairman of the now-defunct Senator Shehu Buba Free Medical Outreach, made this known during a press conference held in Bauchi. He explained that the group, made up of over 10,000 health professionals across Bauchi’s 20 local government areas, operated entirely on personal contributions with no formal agreement or financial backing from the Senator or his campaign.
“For over a year, we mobilized medical doctors, nurses, midwives, lab scientists, and other professionals to deliver critical health services to underserved communities—all in support of Senator Buba’s gubernatorial vision,” Fada stated.
The group said they conducted free medical outreaches in communities such as Sabon Garin Nabordo in Toro LGA and Bidir in Katagum LGA, and actively responded to the cholera outbreak in Bauchi State in 2024 with interventions like well chlorination, aqua tablet distribution, and fumigation exercises.
“Our efforts were purely voluntary. We approached the Senator’s movement and declared our support at no cost. But for over a year, our multiple written requests and follow-ups to meet with the Senator were ignored, even while others with unclear contributions were given priority access,” Fada lamented.
As a result of what they described as a persistent lack of acknowledgment and engagement, the group announced their decision to withdraw their support and dissolve the outreach team.
“We feel betrayed and sidelined. Our loyalty was not reciprocated. Today, we formally withdraw our support from Senator Shehu Buba’s 2027 governorship ambition,” the group declared.
They further called on the Senator to refund the sum of N7.6 million, which they said represents funds spent personally by members during their volunteer activities.
In a major political shift, the group also announced their endorsement of Dr. Ibrahim Ali Usman as their preferred senatorial candidate for Bauchi South in 2027.
“We will now channel our energy toward supporting leaders who value our contributions and share our vision for a healthier Bauchi State,” Fada concluded.
Senator’s Aide Responds: “They Were
Reacting to the group’s announcement, Alhaji Lalaye, an aide to Senator Buba, described the development as unfortunate but clarified that there was never any formal agreement or obligation between the Senator and the group.
“They were volunteers who chose to support the Senator out of goodwill. We appreciate their efforts, but they were never officially engaged or promised any financial compensation,” Lalaye said.
He insisted that many members of the group remain loyal to Senator Buba, adding that the Senator continues to support medical causes and people across the state through personal and public initiatives.
“Senator Shehu Buba is a man of the people. His home is open 24 hours a day to citizens seeking help. He pays for medical bills, supports infrastructure projects, and assists countless people without bias,” Lalaye stated.
He urged the volunteers to be patient, emphasizing that political movements require time, strategy, and unity.
“In politics, there will be misunderstandings and setbacks, but what matters is patience and shared purpose. Senator Buba is committed to serving everyone, regardless of political alignment,” he said.
A Lesson in Political Engagement
The situation underscores the importance of clear communication and defined expectations in political volunteerism. While the outreach team acted in good faith, their demands for recognition and reimbursement now clash with the informal nature of their support.
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