Mubarak Shuaybu Shelleng
The Office of the Executive Chairman, Mayo Belwa Local Government Area, categorically refutes the recent allegations against Honourable Umar Nashon Gubi. These claims, spearheaded by Aisha Yahaya Tola, are not only unfounded but appear to be part of a politically motivated smear campaign aimed at tarnishing his hard-earned reputation. The petition, alleging financial fraud and gender exploitation, is riddled with inconsistencies and lacks any substantive merit.
Firstly, the Adamawa State House of Assembly should not entertain a matter that is clearly personal and does not fall within its legislative oversight. The alleged transaction between Hon. Gubi and Ms. Tola was a private arrangement that had no bearing on his official duties as a local government chairman. Any financial dispute of this nature should have been addressed through appropriate legal channels rather than being politicized.
It is highly suspicious that these allegations are only emerging in 2025, despite the alleged transaction taking place in 2021. The delayed timing raises serious questions about the petitioner’s true intentions. Why wait over three years to bring this matter to light? This strongly suggests a deliberate effort to undermine Hon. Gubi’s credibility ahead of future political engagements.
Furthermore, Ms. Tola’s vague and baseless accusations of gender exploitation appear to be an attempt to manipulate public sentiment rather than present any factual evidence of wrongdoing. Such claims trivialize genuine cases of gender-based exploitation and should not be used as tools for personal vendettas.
Hon. Umar Nashon Gubi has consistently upheld the highest ethical standards in both his personal and professional dealings. It is unfortunate that Ms. Tola, who has been a longtime beneficiary of his goodwill and support, is now resorting to character assassination. Notably, there exists no written contract, no receipts, and no formal agreement detailing the alleged transaction, indicating that whatever transpired between them was an act of goodwill rather than a formal business deal.
Hon. Gubi has made it clear that Aisha Yahaya Tola is attempting to mislead the public through deliberate misinformation. He facilitated the deposit of her funds with a car dealer, awaiting her balance to complete the purchase. At one point, he even offered her a Toyota Corolla, which she declined. Upon realizing her mischievous intentions, he instructed the dealer to refund her money, which was duly transferred to her account. All evidence of this transaction is available. Shockingly, after receiving the refund, she later sent the same amount back to Hon. Nashon’s account in two installments of one million naira each. Her subsequent demand for a car instead of a refund further underscores her ulterior motives. This is a clear case of bitterness and misplaced entitlement rather than a genuine grievance.
It is also disgraceful that certain media outlets, likely influenced by financial incentives, hastily published Ms. Tola’s claims without verifying the facts. Hon. Umar Nashon Gubi remains a respected leader, and no amount of blackmail will succeed in tarnishing his impeccable record of service.
In light of these facts, we urge the Adamawa State House of Assembly to dismiss this petition outright. Entertaining baseless accusations would set a dangerous precedent where public officers can be unjustly blackmailed for political gains. Instead, the Assembly should focus on legislative matters that truly impact the lives of the people of Adamawa State.
Honourable Umar Nashon Gubi remains resolute in his commitment to serving the people of Mayo Belwa Local Government with integrity. He will not be deterred by orchestrated attempts to undermine his leadership. We call upon the public and relevant authorities to recognize this petition for what it truly is: a desperate attempt to discredit a dedicated public servant through false allegations. Due process and fairness must prevail, and Hon. Gubi should not be subjected to a trial by media or political manipulation.
It is time to put an end to politically motivated blackmail and focus on real governance issues that affect the lives of our people.
