Senator Shehu Umar has expressed shock over the decision of Bauchi Emirate to withdraw his chieftaincy title of “Mujaddadin” Bauchi for allegedly insulting Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State.
Umar in a letter addressed to the Emirate on Thursday said, ”while I have accepted the decision of the Emirate, I adhere to a policy of constructive criticism and refrain from use of abusive language”.
Umar said his response to Gov Bala’s disparaging comments on President Bola Tinubu was aimed at defending the Nigerian leader against what he perceived as calculated attempts to tarnish his reputation and sow public discord.
Umar, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, said the governor’s comments were confrontational, accusatory, abusive, and defamatory.
“I received with utter shock a letter dated August 14, informing me of the Bauchi Emirate Council’s decision to withdraw my traditional title of Mujaddadin Bauchi.
“This decision was made over an allegation that I insulted Gov. Bala Mohammed during a rally.
“Meanwhile, I must state that during the recent APC campaign flag-off, I responded to the Governor’s disparaging comments on President Bola Tinubu, which I felt were calculated to expose the President to public contempt and disaffection,’’ the senator said.