By Jelili Gbadamosi
A United States-based advocacy firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, has criticised the reported arrest of five men in Borno State over their alleged use of “Tinubu Must Go” T-shirts ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The firm made its position known in a statement posted on its verified X handle on Thursday while commenting on political developments in Nigeria.
It alleged that the arrests raised concerns about freedom of expression and the state of democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 polls.
The advocacy group further alleged that President Bola Tinubu was seeking to retain power and accused his administration of using institutions including the police, courts and electoral bodies to influence the outcome of the forthcoming election.
The claims by the firm have not been independently established.
In its statement, Von Batten-Montague-York also linked Tinubu’s alleged desire to remain in office to the legal protections associated with presidential status, particularly immunity from certain foreign legal proceedings while in office.
The firm further referenced longstanding allegations concerning Tinubu’s alleged involvement in heroin trafficking in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s, suggesting that his status as Nigeria’s President could affect any possible legal action.
Tinubu has previously denied wrongdoing relating to the allegations, while no new criminal indictment arising from the claims has been established in connection with the statement.
The development comes as political activities and preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum.
The advocacy firm called for the United States to support what it described as efforts by Nigerians to protect democracy and the rule of law.
