Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called for the immediate release of five Nigerians reportedly arrested in Borno State for wearing T-shirts carrying the message, “Tinubu Must Go.”
Atiku said citizens should not be detained simply for expressing a political opinion, arguing that political criticism should remain protected in a democratic society.
The former vice-president made the demand in a statement issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council.
He said that if the reported arrests were based on the slogan printed on the T-shirts, authorities should explain why wearing such clothing would constitute an offence.
Atiku linked the reported arrests to growing concerns over the rising cost of living, pointing to increases in the prices of fuel, food, transportation and electricity.
He also recalled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s opposition to the fuel policy of former President Goodluck Jonathan, arguing that Nigerians should equally be able to express dissatisfaction with policies under the current administration.
“Tinubu opposed Jonathan’s fuel policy in the streets. Nigerians are living with the consequences of Tinubu’s fuel policy in their homes,” Atiku said.
He claimed that rising living costs were putting pressure on households and workers, adding that citizens should not face arrest simply for expressing their frustration through political messages.
Atiku questioned what the reported arrests would mean for freedom of political expression in Nigeria.
“What kind of democracy grants its president the right to protest, then takes that right away from everyone else?” he asked.
The ADC presidential candidate described “Tinubu Must Go” as a political expression calling for a change in government rather than a threat or criminal act.
He said Tinubu could disagree with the slogan or campaign against it, but argued that the government should not use state authority to punish people solely for displaying the message.
“‘Tinubu Must Go’ is a demand for political change. It is not a weapon, a threat or a crime,” Atiku said.
“President Tinubu can disagree with those words. He can campaign against them. He cannot make people disappear into custody for wearing them.”
Atiku called on the authorities to provide information about the whereabouts of the five people reportedly arrested and allow them access to their families and legal representatives.
He further demanded their release if the slogan was the reason for their detention.
The former vice-president again drew a comparison with Tinubu’s previous opposition to Jonathan’s administration, saying Nigerians should have the same freedom to criticise the policies of the current government.
“Tinubu was free to tell Jonathan that his policies were hurting Nigerians. Nigerians must be free to tell Tinubu that his policies are hurting them. Release these five citizens now,” Atiku said.
