By Salihu Pirkusu, Maiduguri
The Nigeria Police, Borno Command has said that the arrest and subsequent prosecution of five suspects was in connection with allegations of inciting disturbance, breach of public peace, thuggery and being in possession of drug substance, contrary to reports and widespread public discourse that the suspects were arrested for wearing or in possession of ‘Tinubu Must Go’ T-shirts in Maiduguri.
The clarification was contained in a press statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Keneth Daso, a copy which was made available to our Correspondent on Wednesday.
The statement: “Attention of the Borno Police Command has been drawn to the viral reports and widespread public discourse concerning the arrest and subsequent prosecution of five suspects in connection with allegations of inciting disturbance, breach of public peace, thuggery and being in possession of drug substance.
“Brief of the Case:
On 25 September, 2026, at about 1800hrs, officers of the Command, while on a routine township patrol around West End Roundabout area Maiduguri, apprehended five suspects allegedly involved in conduct capable of causing public disturbance.
“The suspects were found in possession of:
1. 15 wraps of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp
2. 100 tablets suspected to be D5
3. One shisha pot
4. One Scissors
5. Two T-shirts bearing the inscription “Tinubu Must Go.”
“The suspects were subsequently subjected to preliminary investigation, during which statements were obtained from them. Upon completion of the initial investigation, the case was charged to court.
“The Command wishes to categorically state that the Nigeria Police Force is a professional, non-partisan institution and does not discriminate against persons on the basis of political affiliation or viewpoint. The Command remains committed to the protection of fundamental human rights, the rule of law, due process, accountability and transparency in the discharge of its responsibilities.
“The Command further emphasizes that the decision to charge the matter before a competent court is intended to allow the appropriate judicial process to take its course.
“Members of the public are therefore urged to rely on verified information and allow the court to determine the matter based on the facts and evidence presented before it.
“The Borno Police Command remains committed to professionalism, impartiality, accountability and the protection of lives and property”. Daso stated.
