ADC-PCC Condemns Police Disruption of Anti-Tinubu Rally in Kano, Calls Action Unconstitutional
The African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council (ADC-PCC) has strongly condemned the Kano State Police Command for disrupting a planned “Tinubu Must Go” rally, describing the action as shameful, unconstitutional and a troubling sign of intolerance for dissent.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its Director of Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, the council said police operatives barricaded The Avenue Event Centre in Kano and allegedly intimidated participants who had gathered for the meeting.
The rally, organized by concerned youths and led by Barrister Abba Hikima, was intended as a peaceful gathering to discuss opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s administration ahead of the 2027 elections.
What Happened
According to the ADC-PCC, despite the police presence, the youths showed determination and refused to be silenced. The council also expressed outrage over reports that the owner of the event centre was arrested for allowing the facility to be used for the gathering.
“This is not democracy. This is tyranny. For how long will the APC continue to use the police to suppress dissenting voices?” Ologbondiyan asked.
He added: “You can stop a rally and arrest a venue owner, but you cannot arrest hunger in the land. You cannot barricade the anger and frustration of over 200 million people.”
Demands by the Council
The ADC-PCC called on the Inspector-General of Police and the Kano State Police Command to immediately and unconditionally release the event centre owner if still in custody. It also urged the police to stop actions that could turn the force into an instrument of political oppression.
The council further appealed to civil society organizations and human rights groups to closely monitor developments around freedom of assembly and expression in the country.
Why This Matters
The incident highlights growing political tension as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections. Opposition groups accuse the ruling APC of using security agencies to stifle criticism, while the police have in some cases argued that their actions are meant to prevent breakdown of law and order.
The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression is protected under the 1999 Constitution. How authorities handle such gatherings will continue to shape public perception of democratic space in the months ahead.
Sources:
Statement by Kola Ologbondiyan, Director of Media and Publicity, ADC-PCC; reports from Daily Trust, ThisDay, Tribune, Sahara Reporters and other national media, October 11–13, 2026.
