An All Progressives Congress (APC) gathering in Kano took an unexpected turn after a group of women publicly displayed underwear printed with the image of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a political rally.
The incident occurred alongside an official visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, who was in the state to commission the Lodge Road project and launch the North-West Energised Commercialisation Now programme. While the event was intended to highlight development initiatives and grassroots engagement, the display quickly became the focal point of public attention.
Dressed in APC’s signature green attire, the women waved the branded items, which many observers interpreted as a symbolic show of loyalty and early support for Tinubu’s potential 2027 re-election bid. However, the move sparked mixed reactions both online and offline.
On social media, some users treated the moment humorously, sharing memes and commentary about the unusual nature of the display. Others, however, criticized the act as inappropriate and degrading, especially given Kano’s reputation as a culturally conservative state.
Critics argued that such gestures risk undermining the dignity of political engagement and public discourse.
Amid the controversy, unverified claims surfaced suggesting that political rivals may have been behind the stunt to embarrass the APC. Some online voices pointed fingers at the opposition New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), though no concrete evidence has been presented. Meanwhile, an aide to the NNPP governor reportedly dismissed the claims, focusing instead on ongoing state initiatives such as livestock distribution and educational support programs.
Adding another layer to the unfolding narrative, reports indicated that some NNPP supporters responded by producing similar items bearing the image of their own political leader, Rabiu Kwankwaso. This back-and-forth has further highlighted the increasingly theatrical nature of political rivalry in Nigeria.
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The incident underscores how political expression in the country continues to evolve, sometimes blurring the line between support and spectacle. As reactions continue to pour in, the event has reignited conversations about political messaging, cultural sensitivity, and the limits of campaign symbolism.
