Idris Kalgo, a prominent chieftain of Nigeria’s African Democratic Congress (ADC), has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of systematically targeting opposition politicians for investigations while granting immunity to members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Kalgo’s remarks, made during a recent interview on Trust TV, highlight escalating tensions over alleged political persecution in Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
Kalgo directly challenged the fairness of ongoing legal actions, questioning why enforcement appears concentrated on ADC members. “Why is it only ADC members who are being pursued?” he asked, framing the issue as a deliberate strategy to stifle dissent. He emphasized a double standard, stating that APC affiliation seemingly shields individuals from scrutiny. “As long as you are a member of the APC, you are safe. You are not corrupt. But the moment you leave, you are suddenly labeled corrupt and targeted,” Kalgo asserted.
To illustrate his point, Kalgo referenced politicians who defected to the APC without facing consequences. He cited Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the former vice-presidential candidate for the 2023 opposition ticket, who joined the ruling party but has not encountered active legal proceedings. “Where is he now?” Kalgo questioned, implying preferential treatment. He also mentioned former APC governors, such as Yahaya Bello, who despite allegations have evaded arrest, noting that attempted actions “even at airports” have ultimately failed.
Kalgo linked these patterns to a broader effort to weaken opposition strength ahead of the 2027 elections. “These people are capable of challenging power. That’s why they are afraid,” he claimed, suggesting the government seeks to impede political rivals. He coupled this with public frustration, stating, “People are tired of poor governance. Nigerians want their voices heard, and leaders should allow democracy to flow.”
This rhetoric unfolds within a polarized political context. The APC has governed Nigeria since 2015, and the 2023 elections—marred by opposition legal challenges—reinforced its control. Smaller parties like the ADC often serve as vocal critics, raising concerns about institutional bias. Kalgo’s allegations echo longstanding opposition claims of weaponized investigations, which the government typically denies, insisting actions are evidence-based and not politically motivated.
International observers have repeatedly warned that selective law enforcement threatens democratic stability in Nigeria. Without impartial accountability, critics argue, public trust erodes, and political grievances intensify. As the 2027 election cycle nears, such accusations may fuel opposition solidarity and demands for electoral reforms.
While Tinubu’s office has not commented on Kalgo’s specific charges, the ADC’s intervention underscores a critical debate: whether Nigeria’s legal frameworks are applied equitably across party lines. The outcome of this discourse could influence the nation’s democratic trajectory, potentially shaping both governance practices and voter engagement in the years ahead.
