Political Tensions Rise in North-West as ‘Tinubu Must Go’ Protest Rocks Zamfara, APC Primary Turns Violent

Political tension is rising across parts of Nigeria’s North-West following a protest against President Bola Tinubu in Zamfara State and reports of violence during the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary in the state.

Hundreds of youths on Monday, November 2, 2026, reportedly gathered at Freedom Square in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, wearing white T-shirts bearing the inscription, “TINUBU MUST GO”.

Videos from the demonstration showed protesters chanting slogans and expressing dissatisfaction with the Tinubu administration. The gathering also disrupted traffic around the busy junction, attracting the attention of motorists and commuters. 

The protest came amid another political security concern in Zamfara, where violence reportedly erupted during the APC senatorial primary for Zamfara North in Kaura Namoda.

Reports said suspected political thugs disrupted activities at two polling centres, including Namoda Model Primary School and the Galadima Dangaladima Ward polling unit. Voters and residents reportedly fled as the situation deteriorated.

In a related incident, Kaura Namoda Local Government Chairman, Mannir Muhammad Haidara, reportedly escaped an attack after youths confronted him over allegations of bias in the contest between Senator Sahabi Ya’u Kaura and Senator Tijjani Yahaya Kaura. One person was reportedly injured during the disturbances. 

The developments have prompted renewed calls for political parties, candidates and supporters to avoid confrontations and ensure that political activities do not become a source of insecurity.

Amid the reports, a political commentator raised concerns about the safety of APC supporters in Zamfara, advising them not to undertake campaign activities alone because of the possibility of confrontation.

The commentator also warned the APC against encouraging or tolerating violence, arguing that political intimidation could undermine the democratic process and put citizens at risk, regardless of party affiliation.

The message stressed that Nigeria needs a free, fair and credible election in which voters are allowed to choose their preferred candidates without coercion, threats or manipulation.

It also condemned electoral malpractice, arguing that election rigging can fuel instability and deepen public distrust in democratic institutions.

Calls for peaceful political participation

The latest developments come against the backdrop of other reported attacks involving political supporters in the North-West.

In Katsina State, police arrested 14 suspects following an attack on APC supporters travelling to a campaign rally in Funtua on October 28. A female passenger was reportedly injured, while several vehicles were damaged. The police said investigations were continuing. 

These incidents have intensified concerns about the safety of political campaigns as parties begin preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Observers have warned that political disagreements must not be allowed to turn into attacks on supporters, candidates or ordinary residents.

The right to peaceful protest and political association is protected under Nigeria’s democratic framework. Equally, no political party or individual should use violence to silence opposing views or influence electoral outcomes.

As political activities gather momentum, the central demand remains that security agencies protect all citizens, political parties conduct peaceful campaigns, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deliver a credible process in which the electorate's freely expressed choices are respected.