ADC Accuses Tinubu Government of Suppressing Dissent Over ‘Tinubu Must Go’ Rally in Kano

ADC Accuses Tinubu Government of Suppressing Dissent Over ‘Tinubu Must Go’ Rally in Kano

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the reported police crackdown on a planned ‘Tinubu Must Go’ rally in Kano State, describing the action as an attack on citizens’ democratic rights and their freedom to express dissatisfaction with the government.

The opposition party criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the incident, insisting that the government cannot silence public anger over economic hardship through police action.

The party’s position was captured in the pointed remark, “You can’t arrest hunger,” a statement reflecting its criticism of the government’s handling of citizens’ economic grievances.

The controversy comes amid growing political tensions over economic conditions, governance and preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The planned rally was intended to provide a platform for protesters to express opposition to Tinubu’s administration. However, the reported police action has triggered fresh questions about the protection of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression in Nigeria.

For the ADC, the central issue is whether citizens can freely express dissatisfaction with an elected government without facing intimidation or obstruction by security agencies.

The party’s criticism also places renewed attention on the government’s response to public frustration over the cost of living and other economic pressures affecting households across the country.

In a democratic society, peaceful protest remains a legitimate means through which citizens can demand accountability, challenge government policies and communicate their grievances to those in power.

Security agencies have a responsibility to maintain law and order, but such responsibilities must be exercised within the limits of the law and with respect for constitutionally protected rights.

The incident therefore raises a fundamental question for the Tinubu administration: how should the government respond when citizens take to the streets to express dissatisfaction with its leadership?

As political activities ahead of the 2027 elections intensify, the handling of dissent and opposition gatherings could become an important test of the government's commitment to democratic principles.

For the ADC, the message is clear: the police may disperse a gathering, but suppressing a protest does not eliminate the economic grievances that brought people together in the first place.

The full circumstances surrounding the police operation, including the official justification for the action and the extent of any restrictions imposed on protesters, require further clarification.

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