Zulum Fires Back: 'I Never Ordered TinubuMustGo Arrests, I Was Talking About Criminals'
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has shut down claims that he ordered the arrest of #TinubuMustGo protesters, making it crystal clear his tough talk was aimed at criminals threatening the peace, not opposition voices.
The governor's camp fired back on Sunday night after the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council demanded answers over a viral video where Zulum allegedly threatened to arrest anyone chanting 'Tinubu Must Go'.
What did Zulum actually say?
According to his spokesman, Dauda Iliya, the governor's remarks came during a media chat in Maiduguri where he addressed a spike in social vices and crime, not political dissent.
Iliya said Zulum was specifically referring to 'young men moving around wearing shirts emblazoned with knives and clubs, portraying violence' - a clear nod to the gangsterism and criminality that has plagued the state since the Boko Haram insurgency.
'Governor Zulum never mentioned the #TinubuMustGo group, ADC, or any opposition group; he spoke only about security, peace, and order,' Iliya stated.
ADC accused of 'self-indictment'
The governor's camp didn't mince words, calling the ADC's statement 'unprofessional' and 'a product of political desperation'. Iliya argued that by reacting so aggressively, the ADC looked like it was claiming responsibility for the criminal activities Zulum was actually addressing.
'Unfortunately for the ADC, its rash statement reads as self-indictment,' he added.
Why Borno's peace is non-negotiable
Iliya reminded critics that Borno has been through over a decade of insurgency, and the state has finally found some stability under Zulum's watch. The government even set up an Anti-Vices security outfit, which has reportedly slashed crime in Maiduguri and its environs.
'It is a record-low time to play politics on the subject of peace and security, especially in Borno,' he said.
What this means for Nigeria's political climate
This dust-up is just the latest flashpoint in the heated #TinubuMustGo movement, which has gained traction amid economic hardship. But Zulum's team is standing firm: the governor is focused on security, not silencing dissent.
As the 2027 elections approach, expect more of these clashes. But for now, Zulum is sending a clear message - don't twist his words, and don't mess with Borno's peace.
Frequently asked questions
Did Zulum order the arrest of #TinubuMustGo protesters?
No. Governor Zulum's spokesman clarified that the governor's remarks were about criminals and social urchins, not political protesters. He never mentioned the #TinubuMustGo group or any opposition party.
Why did the ADC accuse Zulum?
The ADC Presidential Campaign Council cited a viral video and a news report claiming Zulum threatened to arrest anyone chanting 'Tinubu Must Go'. Zulum's team dismissed this as a misrepresentation and 'political desperation'.
What is the Anti-Vices security outfit in Borno?
It's a state government initiative set up to tackle gangsterism, kidnapping, phone snatching, and other social vices that rose after the Boko Haram insurgency. Officials say it has made Maiduguri safer.