The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council has raised concerns over a viral video purportedly showing Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum ordering the arrest of individuals expressing the slogan "Tinubu Must Go." The ADC is demanding that Zulum clarify his position, especially in light of his previous denial regarding similar actions against those wearing T-shirts with the same slogan.

In a statement released on Sunday, Phrank Shaibu, the ADC's Director of Strategic Communications, highlighted the troubling nature of the video, which features Zulum speaking in Hausa. The council emphasized that the governor's directive raises serious questions about his commitment to upholding democratic rights. They expressed the need for transparency, urging Zulum to reconcile the contents of the video with his earlier claims that no such orders had been issued.

The ADC's statement pointed out that Nigerians deserve clear communication regarding the treatment of peaceful critics of President Bola Tinubu. They argued that expressing political opinions, including through slogans or T-shirts, should not be criminalized. "No governor has the authority to criminalize peaceful political opinion," the council stated, asserting that calls for a president to resign do not constitute a criminal offense.

The ADC warned against the potential misuse of laws to suppress dissent, insisting that if authorities possess credible evidence of any wrongdoing, it should be presented in court rather than using political expression as a pretext for punitive actions. Shaibu remarked, "If the authorities have credible evidence of a separate offence, they should present it in court and allow due process to take its course. They must not use other allegations as a cover to punish citizens for their political views."

The council is calling for Zulum to retract any directives aimed at peaceful protesters and to publicly assure that no one will face arrest solely for opposing President Tinubu. This demand comes at a time of heightened political activity in Nigeria, with the 2027 general elections approaching. Opposition groups are increasingly mobilizing through rallies and social media to voice their criticisms of the current administration.

The ADC emphasized that political disagreements should be resolved through democratic dialogue rather than intimidation or threats of arrest. Shaibu concluded, "A government confident in its record answers criticism with evidence and performance—not threats of arrest and detention." This situation underscores the ongoing debate about the treatment of political dissent in Borno State and the broader implications for Nigeria as the next election cycle approaches.