The Borno State Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding the arrest of five men in Maiduguri, saying they were apprehended over the alleged possession of suspected drugs and conduct capable of causing a public disturbance, not simply for wearing anti-government T-shirts.
The clarification followed calls by the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, for the immediate release of the men
The police said the circumstances surrounding the arrests were different from the impression created by the calls for their release, adding that the suspects were being prosecuted over the offences for which they were allegedly arrested.
Speaking on the development on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Nahum Daso, said the Command was aware of viral reports and widespread public discussions surrounding the arrest and subsequent prosecution of the suspects.
Daso said the men were being prosecuted over allegations bordering on inciting disturbance, breach of public peace, thuggery and possession of suspected drug substances.
According to him, officers of the Command, while conducting a routine township patrol around the West End Roundabout area of Maiduguri on September 25, 2026, at about 6:00 p.m., apprehended the five suspects over alleged conduct capable of causing public disturbance.
He stated that the suspects were allegedly found in possession of 15 wraps of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, 100 tablets suspected to be D5, one shisha pot, one pair of scissors and two T-shirts bearing the inscription “Tinubu Must Go.”
The police spokesperson noted that the suspects were subsequently subjected to preliminary investigation, during which statements were obtained from them.
He added that following the completion of the initial investigation, the case was charged before a competent court for further judicial proceedings.
The Command, however, stressed that the arrest and prosecution should not be interpreted as discrimination against the suspects on the basis of their political views or affiliation.
According to the statement, “The Nigeria Police Force is a professional and non-partisan institution and does not discriminate against individuals based on their political affiliation or viewpoint.
“The Command reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of fundamental human rights, the rule of law, due process, accountability and transparency in the discharge of its responsibilities.
“It explained that the decision to charge the matter before a competent court was intended to allow the appropriate judicial process to determine the allegations against the suspects.
“The police therefore urged members of the public to rely on verified information and allow the court to determine the matter based on the facts and evidence presented before it.
“The Command reiterated its commitment to professionalism, impartiality, accountability and the protection of lives and property.”