About the North’s ‘Tinubu Must Go’

The ban on political campaigns in Nigeria has recently been lifted, but campaigns are only beginning to gain momentum. By mid-October to early November, all major political parties will be in full campaign mode, and the heat of the January 2027 elections will be felt across the country. Politicians, however, have a tendency to breach ethical rules in pursuit of their selfish interests, often disregarding societal wellbeing.

Recently, there has been an alarming increase in hateful rhetoric in the northern part of the country, with one such gathering scheduled for last weekend in Kano state but halted by the police. The convener of the Kano movement expressed his belief that President Tinubu has failed, yet it is against the law for citizens to engage in activities that could potentially break public peace and order.

There is a delicate balance between freedom of speech and association and acting in a manner that could potentially disrupt public order. While the current government's economic reforms have brought hardship across the nation, it is essential to express grievances within the bounds of the law. Destroying the President’s campaign billboards, attacking his campaign vehicles, or chanting "Tinubu Must Go" in a violent street procession is not only wrong but also a dangerous trend that could set the country ablaze if replicated in other regions.

It is crucial for Nigerians, regardless of their region or ancestry, to respect the rights of others and refrain from engaging in activities that could potentially result in a breach of public peace and order.