President Bola Tinubu reportedly faced a hostile reaction from some people at the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign flag-off in Kaduna State on Saturday, as a section of the crowd was heard chanting “Ba ma yi”.

The incident occurred at the Ranchers Bees Stadium, Kaduna, where the APC formally launched its campaign for the 2027 presidential election.

Daily Trust reports that there was mild drama at the venue when some people reportedly expressed disapproval during the event.

The Hausa phrase “Ba ma yi” translates roughly to “We don’t want it”, a chant that appeared to convey dissatisfaction with the President or the campaign.

The reported incident came as Tinubu addressed supporters and sought their backing for a second term in office.

SaharaReporters earlier reported that during his speech, the President accused opposition parties of being responsible for the hunger and poverty confronting Nigerians, insisting that his administration was working to address the challenges.

“I hear my opponents talking about hunger and poverty. Who created it? They did! They created hunger, they created poverty, we are trying to eradicate it,” Tinubu said.

He also defended his administration’s economic policies, including the removal of the petrol subsidy, arguing that the measure had helped tackle corruption and fuel smuggling.

The President promised prosperity if re-elected, telling supporters they would not regret giving him another mandate.
However, the reported chant at the rally has drawn attention amid growing public debate over the administration’s economic policies and the rising cost of living.

Since Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, the removal of the petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign exchange system have contributed to significant economic pressures on households, even as the government points to improvements in public finances and foreign reserves.

The Kaduna rally attracted APC governors, ministers, lawmakers and party supporters from different parts of the country.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima and other party leaders also addressed the gathering, urging Nigerians to support Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The booing incident adds to the political attention surrounding the APC’s campaign launch as parties begin preparations for the 2027 general elections.