Atiku Reacts To Arrest Of 5 Men Wearing ‘Tinubu Must Go’ T-Shirts In Borno, Makes Demand

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has demanded the immediate release of five Nigerians reportedly detained in Borno State for wearing T-shirts carrying the slogan “Tinubu Must Go.”

In a press release issued through Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication for the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku noted that the reported arrests present serious threats to free speech under a democratic system.

He urged the relevant authorities to make public the current location of the five individuals, allow them prompt access to legal representation and family members, and grant them unconditional freedom if their detention stems solely from wearing the political slogan.

The former Vice President also drew parallels to President Bola Tinubu’s past involvement in public demonstrations opposing fuel price increases during the tenure of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Atiku pointed out the sharp contrast given the ongoing economic challenges confronting Nigerian households following the withdrawal of petrol subsidies and the rollout of accompanying economic reforms.

“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.

“Parents are cutting meals. Workers can scarcely afford the journey to work. Families are being crushed by bills that rise faster than their income. And when citizens put their anger on a T-shirt, the response is reportedly an arrest.”

“What kind of democracy grants its President the right to protest, then takes that right away from everyone else?” he asked.

Atiku maintained that displaying the words “Tinubu Must Go” amounts strictly to political expression and should not be treated as a legal infraction.

“‘Tinubu Must Go’ is a demand for political change. It is not a weapon, a threat or a crime.”

“President Tinubu can disagree with those words. He can campaign against them. He cannot make people disappear into custody for wearing them,” he said.

Concluding his statement, the former Vice President called on law enforcement agencies to provide clear explanations regarding the detention of the individuals.

“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.”