Abdulraheem muhammed olarewaju
The Borno State government has vehemently denied rumors that one of Governor Babagana Zulum’s sons, Umara, was arrested for allegedly killing an Indian national.
According to a report titled “Son of Borno State Governor Murders Someone In India—Politics,” the rumors claimed that Governor Zulum had visited India using his diplomatic standing to handle the matter.
Senior Special Assistant to Governor Zulum on New Media, Abdurrahman Ahmed Bundi, denied these claims in a statement on Wednesday. Bundi emphasized that none of the governor’s sons “was either arrested or charged with any crime, or involved in any unlawful activities anywhere.”
Following a journey to Egypt to attend the annual ASWAN Forum conference in Cairo, Governor Zulum reportedly took a one-month holiday for the Hajj in Saudi Arabia. The government’s declaration refutes the blog’s assertions by highlighting the governor’s location during the period in question.
Public reactions on social media have been mixed. Some show support for the governor while others voice mistrust.
A social media user, Franky Frank, expressed cynicism: “Is there no University in Borno State? Politicians!”
Usman Baba Abubakar called for legal consequences, stating, “Let the law deal with him! His Father Governor Zulum used to insult people and said that poor people’s children do not have morals, that is why God showed him signs on his son.”
Another user, Ibrahim Said, suggested that the truth will eventually come out: “No smoke without fire! Sooner or later, the truth must be disclosed.”
Lawan Karda Bemi proposed a way to clear up the rumors: “If he wasn’t arrested, then let him come out on a short video clip to address the issues.”
Abdurrahman Audi defended the governor’s son, stating, “The Borno State Governor’s Son has been in Nigeria for more than two months. People are only spreading lies. I wonder how people just spread news without investigation.”
Abubakar Muhammad Ashiru criticized the governor’s son for his alleged behavior abroad, saying, “Instead of focusing on what brought him to the country, he ended up fighting with Chinese people in a nightclub. He should be brought back to study in Nigeria so that the good name of his father is not smeared.”
Mazi Ikechi provided a critical view on perceived double standards, stating, “While the Northern Elite imposes Sharia on the Almajiris on the streets of the north, their sons and daughters are abroad living their lives without hindrances. Just imagine if this had happened to an ordinary man on the street of the North.”
Baba Umar Goni recalled a previous incident, “Even the father himself slapped an Arab man in Saudi Arabia where he performed Hajj and was dealt with by the country’s law. Later he was free and traveled to India for his son’s case.”
Amb Saidu Hamzat questioned the source of the information: “How did this information get into Nigeria? Through who? We too like bad news.”
Hassan Suleiman commented on the choice of educational institutions: “Imagine his father, the Governor of Borno State, was once Rector at Ramat Polytechnic. Now that he became Governor, he pushed out his children to school abroad. What happened to our home base schools?”
Owojecho Francis showed indifference to the incident, saying, “Nothing concerns me. That refinery changes nothing in my life. Let those in charge be concerned.” This comment reflects a sense of detachment and skepticism about the refinery’s impact on ordinary citizens.
James Sonik called for action from authorities, urging, “Nigeria service should do the needful, this is where we need them most.”
Abubakar Waziri Rabbebe lamented the negative reactions: “No matter how good you are, a lot will pray for your downfall. Just look at how some are rejoicing and praying the incident to be true, all for the hatred they have for the Governor. God, we pray for you to protect and guide our governor (Zulum).”
Daniel Friday expressed concern for more pressing issues: “The matter does not concern me. Abeg when food prices go down. I need an update.”
Rabiu Yusuf Arewawa interpreted the rumors as a sign: “Allah showed him signs on his son. Many people in Borno have banned their business and work.”
Lastly, Jr Hussain sought verification from international sources, stating, “Let’s hear from Indian broadcasters.”
