The Borno State Police have arrested five youths for allegedly possessing drugs while wearing T-shirts bearing the slogan “#TinubuMustGo”. The police spokesperson, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, responded to public criticism of the arrests, which many described as an attack on free speech.
Daso clarified in a statement that the youths were detained on September 25, 2026, for allegedly inciting public disturbance and thuggery, not solely for their T-shirts. The arrests occurred during a routine patrol around the West-end roundabout, where police observed behaviour that could disrupt public peace.
Officers recovered 15 wraps of what is suspected to be cannabis, 100 tablets believed to be a type of drug, a shisha pot, scissors, and the T-shirts in question. Following preliminary investigations and statement collection, the suspects were charged in court.
The police emphasised their professionalism, stating they do not discriminate based on political views, and reiterated their commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law. They encouraged the public to await the judicial process’s outcome rather than rely on unverified accounts.
The suspects face charges of criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, disturbing public peace, and thuggery, which are offences under the Borno State Penal Code. Their legal representatives have submitted a bail application, with the court set to rule on this on October 6, 2026. The main trial is scheduled for October 26, 2026. The case has drawn significant legal and public interest, as contrasting narratives emerge.
