Fuel price hike: Atiku condemns arrest of five Nigerians over ‘Tinubu Must Go’ T-Shirts
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of hypocrisy regarding his stance on political protests, following the arrest of five individuals in Borno State. The arrested individuals were reportedly wearing T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan “Tinubu Must Go,” which has sparked a demand for their immediate release.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku criticized the detention and questioned how wearing a T-shirt with a political message could be deemed an offense in a democratic society. He emphasized that such actions are an affront to the principles of democracy.
Atiku highlighted Tinubu’s past opposition to fuel subsidy policies while serving as a politician under former President Goodluck Jonathan, noting that the current administration is now facing a cost-of-living crisis characterized by soaring prices for fuel, food, transportation, and electricity.
“Tinubu opposed Jonathan’s fuel policy in the streets. Now, Nigerians are experiencing the repercussions in their homes,” Atiku stated. He lamented that many families are struggling to afford basic necessities and that workers are finding it increasingly difficult to commute to their jobs.
He questioned the treatment of Nigerians who express their dissatisfaction through political slogans, asking, “What kind of democracy grants its President the right to protest, then takes that right away from everyone else?”
Atiku asserted that the phrase “Tinubu Must Go” is a call for political change rather than a threat or a crime. He urged the authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the arrests and to ensure that the detainees have access to their families and legal representation.
“Tinubu was free to criticize Jonathan for his policies; Nigerians must also be free to express their concerns about Tinubu’s policies. Release these five citizens now,” he concluded.
