In a strongly worded statement, the APC’s Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris Gusau, expressed deep disappointment over the development, labeling it as part of a broader pattern of hostility by the state government towards the ruling party. According to the party, the removal of the billboards is not an isolated incident but rather a continuation of what they describe as a politically motivated campaign to undermine the APC’s visibility in the state. The statement further alleged that the governor’s administration had previously targeted billboards belonging to the APC before shifting focus to those bearing the image of the President.
The APC claims that this behavior is a calculated move to provoke unrest ahead of upcoming political events, including party congresses and the 2027 general elections. The party recounted a recent incident where ZUREP officials reportedly attempted to dismantle a billboard featuring President Tinubu, along with the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, and Senator Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar, both of whom are prominent figures in the party. The situation was only averted due to the intervention of security personnel stationed at the minister’s residence.
The APC has called on security agencies in the state to intervene and prevent further acts of what it terms as vandalism and disrespect towards the President. The party warned that if the governor continues to disregard the authority of President Tinubu as the nation’s leader and Commander-in-Chief, it would be compelled to take decisive action. The statement did not specify what form such action might take, but it emphasized the party’s resolve to resist any attempts to undermine its presence in Zamfara State.
This latest development adds to the growing political friction between the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led state government. Observers note that the removal of political billboards is not uncommon in Nigeria’s highly charged political environment, where rival parties often engage in symbolic acts of dominance. However, the targeting of a sitting president’s image has drawn significant attention, raising questions about the underlying motives and the potential implications for political stability in the state.
The APC’s statement also touched on the broader implications of the governor’s alleged actions, suggesting that they reflect a lack of respect for democratic institutions and the rule of law. The party argued that such behavior sets a dangerous precedent and could escalate tensions if left unchecked. Meanwhile, supporters of the APC in Zamfara have expressed frustration over the situation, with some calling for stronger measures to protect the party’s interests.
As the controversy unfolds, there are growing calls for dialogue between the two political factions to prevent further deterioration of the political climate. Some analysts have urged the state government to clarify its position on the matter, while others have advised the APC to explore legal and diplomatic channels to address its grievances. The situation remains fluid, and the coming days may determine whether the tensions will escalate or subside.
The incident has also sparked discussions about the role of state agencies in political disputes, with critics questioning the neutrality of institutions like ZUREP when they are perceived to be acting on partisan directives. The APC’s allegations have further fueled debates about the extent to which political rivalries should influence administrative actions, particularly those involving public spaces.
In the meantime, the APC has reiterated its commitment to defending its interests and ensuring that its symbols, including billboards, remain untouched. The party’s leadership has vowed to resist any further attempts to erase its presence in Zamfara State, signaling that the political battle is far from over. With the 2027 elections on the horizon, the stakes are high, and both sides are expected to intensify their strategies in the months ahead.
The unfolding situation in Zamfara serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of Nigerian politics, where symbolism and visibility often play crucial roles in shaping public perception. Whether this latest conflict will lead to lasting consequences or be resolved through negotiation remains to be seen. For now, the APC’s strong condemnation of the billboard removals underscores the deepening divide between the party and the state government, setting the stage for further political maneuvering.
