Malam Dauda Iliya, Special Adviser to Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum on media and communications, has denied allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that Zulum threatened opposition politicians with arrests. In a statement issued on Sunday in Maiduguri, Iliya described the ADC's claims as politically motivated and based on a misinterpretation of Zulum's recent media engagement with journalists. The ADC had alleged that Zulum made threatening remarks against opposition politicians.
According to Iliya, Zulum's comments focused on the need to tackle rising social vices and criminal activities that could undermine peace and stability in Borno State. The governor had expressed concern over youths moving around with shirts bearing images of knives and clubs, stressing that his administration would not allow such activities to threaten public order. Iliya recalled that Borno had witnessed increased cases of gangsterism, kidnapping of underage girls, and other social vices following the Boko Haram insurgency.
The state government established an Anti-Vices security outfit to address the challenges, and Iliya said the initiative has contributed to improved security in Maiduguri and its environs. He emphasized that Zulum did not mention ADC, the #TinubuMustGo group, or any opposition party during the media engagement. Iliya urged political actors to exercise restraint and avoid politicizing peace and security issues, particularly given Borno's history of insurgency.
Iliya's denial comes after the ADC's Presidential Campaign Council alleged that Zulum threatened opposition politicians with arrests. The ADC's statement was issued on October 5, 2026, but Iliya did not provide further details on the circumstances surrounding the allegation. The development is significant, as Borno State prepares for the 2027 elections.
Maintaining peace and stability is essential for all political parties to conduct campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, Iliya stressed. He appealed to politicians to prioritize the state's security and avoid making inflammatory statements that could exacerbate tensions. The 2027 elections are expected to be a crucial event in Nigeria's democratic calendar.
Borno State has faced significant security challenges in recent years, particularly with the Boko Haram insurgency. The state's government has implemented various measures to address the issues, including the establishment of the Anti-Vices security outfit. Iliya's statement suggests that the government remains committed to maintaining peace and stability in the state.
The denial by Iliya is likely to ease tensions between the Zulum administration and opposition parties, particularly the ADC. However, it remains to be seen how the development will impact the 2027 elections in Borno State. The state's politicians will need to navigate the complex security landscape and ensure that their campaigns do not exacerbate existing tensions.
Key points
- Borno Governor Babagana Zulum's aide denies threats against opposition politicians
- ADC alleges Zulum threatened opposition politicians with arrests
- Zulum's administration focuses on tackling social vices and maintaining peace in Borno State
