Borno Lawmaker Reacts To Trending Video, Says Clip Fake, Concocted

Following a trending video on the social media space alleging a Borno lawmaker threatening his people to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 election, the lawmaker involved has reacted. 

The lawmaker who represents Nganzai local government area, Hon Mohammed Ali Gajiram has described the video as fake, doctored and concocted. 

Gajiram said the video was re-edited and distorted by mischief makers to tarnish his image.

The lawmaker who is also an Islamic Scholar and Jumu'at Mosque Imam said he was shocked to have a group of people embarking on the blackmail. 

Gajiram made this known in a statement today in Maiduguri. 

“My attention has been drawn to a fake video clip trending on social media platforms that while promoting and campaigning for our Candidate Federal House of Representative, consisting of Marte/Monguno/Nganzai of Northern Borno axis, I threatened my people in Kanuri language that if they didn’t vote for the APC, their lives would be at risk. 

“Ordinarily, I am not surprised to watch the doctored and concocted video, in which some portions of the clip were cut off to sweet those behind such fake and mischievous act, but for the purpose of clarity, let me put the record straight. 

“On no occasion did I threaten any of my people to vote for APC come 2023 or risk being killed, as Lawmaker and also an Islamic Scholar, I have full respect for human lives, free and fair election at all times", the statement reads.

While explaining further, the lawmaker said the video was "turned upside down."

“I am an advocate against political violence, and that was why while addressing my party supporters, I drew their attention to some opposition parties who were campaigning/telling people to vote out APC or risk being killed, unfortunately, some mischief makers concocted such video, and turned it upside down against what really transpired."