The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and other opposition coalition leaders have expressed concern over the reported arrest of young people in Borno State for wearing T-shirts with political messages. This development has sparked widespread criticism from various stakeholders. The National Chairman of the PRP, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, made the position known during a meeting with African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate and former Vice-President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.
According to a statement issued by the PRP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, Baba-Ahmed was part of the opposition coalition delegation that met with Atiku and members of his campaign council. The meeting was held at Atiku's residence on Tuesday. During the meeting, the coalition leaders discussed various issues, including the reported arrest of the youths in Borno State.
The opposition leaders described the reported arrest of the youths as unacceptable and vowed to take up the matter. They warned against a situation where citizens would be treated as “hostages” and released only when political conditions were met. This development has raised concerns about the level of tolerance for dissenting views in the country.
The delegation also discussed plans to strengthen the opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. The leaders agreed on the need to broaden its membership and capacity to effectively challenge the ruling party. The statement said the coalition would continue consultations with other political party leaders, candidates, and individuals interested in joining the alliance.
The PRP and other opposition parties have been actively engaging with various stakeholders to build a stronger coalition. This move is aimed at presenting a united front against the ruling party in the 2027 general elections. The opposition leaders believe that a strong coalition will enhance their chances of success in the elections.
The incident in Borno State has sparked concerns about the level of political tolerance in the country. The opposition leaders have called for an end to such practices, which they believe are aimed at stifling dissenting views. They emphasized the need for a democratic environment where citizens can freely express their opinions without fear of persecution.
The opposition coalition has vowed to continue to push for a more democratic and inclusive political environment. The leaders believe that citizens have the right to express their opinions freely, and that such rights should not be suppressed. The coalition will continue to engage with various stakeholders to promote democratic values and principles in the country.
Key points
- The opposition coalition described the reported arrest of the youths as unacceptable.
- The coalition leaders warned against a situation where citizens would be treated as “hostages” and released only when political conditions were met.
- The opposition parties are strengthening their coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
