The Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, has condemned the reported arrest of five youths in Borno State over T-shirts carrying political messages, warning against any situation where citizens are detained because of their political views.
The party said Nigeria must not become a country where citizens are treated as “hostages” and released only when political conditions are met. The PRP said the reported arrests would be taken up by the opposition coalition, which it said was concerned about the treatment of citizens expressing political opinions.
The development came as opposition parties continue consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections. PRP National Chairman, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, was part of a delegation of opposition coalition leaders that met with former Vice President and African Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, at his Abuja residence on Tuesday.
According to a statement issued by PRP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, the delegation also met members of Atiku’s campaign council. Ishaq described the engagement as a source of “tremendous inspiration” and said the coalition would continue discussions with other opposition party leaders, candidates and groups interested in joining the alliance.
The PRP said the discussions were focused on broadening and strengthening the coalition ahead of the 2027 elections. The party said leaders of the coalition and other prospective members recognised the need to expand their collective capacity and build a wider political platform.
On the Borno arrests, reports indicate that five men were detained in Maiduguri over T-shirts bearing the inscription “Tinubu Must Go.” The men were reportedly arraigned on allegations including criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, disturbance of public peace and thuggery. The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The case has also attracted reactions from opposition figures and groups. The Borno State chapter of the ADC had earlier condemned the arrests and described the T-shirts as an expression of political opinion. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also called for the release of the five men, questioning whether wearing a political slogan should constitute a criminal offence.
The PRP said the coalition would continue to engage other political leaders as it works to broaden its membership and strengthen cooperation among opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
SOURCE: VANGUARD
