ADC Chieftain Idris Kalgo Accuses Tinubu Administration of Targeting Opposition Figures
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Idris Kalgo, has accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of allegedly targeting opposition politicians for investigations while shielding members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from scrutiny.
Kalgo made the allegations during an interview on Trust TV, where he questioned what he described as a pattern of selective enforcement by government agencies. According to him, opposition members—particularly those affiliated with the ADC—are facing increased investigations, arrests, and legal pressure, while politicians aligned with the ruling party appear to be insulated from similar actions.
“Why is it only ADC members who are being pursued?” Kalgo asked during the interview. He argued that Nigeria’s democratic system must be built on fairness and equal application of the law, warning that perceived double standards could undermine public confidence in governance and institutions.
The ADC chieftain further claimed that politicians who defect to the APC often cease to face legal or investigative pressure. He alleged that individuals previously accused of corruption or misconduct become “safe” once they join the ruling party. Conversely, he said, those who leave or oppose the APC frequently find themselves subjected to heightened 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 stated.
He referenced the case of Ifeanyi Okowa, the former Delta State governor and vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, who has since aligned with the APC. Kalgo questioned why no active legal consequences appear to have followed such political transitions, suggesting that party affiliation may influence enforcement priorities.
Kalgo also mentioned Yahaya Bello, a former APC governor who has faced various allegations in the past. He argued that despite reported attempts at investigation and arrest, some high-profile figures remain free, raising concerns about the consistency of democratic and legal processes.
“We have seen attempts at arrests, even at airports, but ultimately they remain free. Why is democracy applied selectively?” he asked.
The ADC leader warned that the alleged targeting of opposition figures could be politically motivated, particularly as Nigeria gradually moves toward the 2027 general elections. He suggested that weakening opposition parties through investigations and arrests could reduce competition and limit political alternatives for voters.
According to Kalgo, the situation reflects a broader dissatisfaction among citizens over governance and democratic practice. He emphasized the importance of allowing dissenting voices to operate freely and urged authorities to ensure that all political actors are treated equally under the law.
“People are tired of poor governance. Nigerians want their voices heard, and leaders should allow democracy to flow,” he said.
He also claimed that opposition parties possess the capacity to challenge the current administration and offer alternative leadership, adding that this potential may be driving increased pressure on opposition members.
“These people are capable of challenging power. That’s why they are afraid,” Kalgo asserted.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official response from the presidency or the APC regarding Kalgo’s allegations. Political observers note that accusations of selective enforcement and political persecution have long featured in Nigeria’s partisan debates, particularly in the lead-up to major elections.
The claims are likely to intensify political discourse in the coming months, as parties position themselves ahead of the next electoral cycle and as public attention remains focused on governance, accountability, and the rule of law in Nigeria.