Man Arrested After Shouting ‘No Water, No Light’ During Bago’s Suleja Visit

Niger State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 38-year-old man, Hamisu Abdullahi, for allegedly shouting “no water, no light” during a public event attended by Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago in Suleja.

Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident, stating that the suspect was arrested during Governor Bago’s Sallah visit to the Emir of Suleja following Eid-el-Fitr prayers on Friday.

According to him, Abdullahi was taken into custody for allegedly attempting to disrupt government activities during the visit and was subsequently transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna for further investigation.

“One Hamisu Abdullahi, 38, of Suleja, was arrested and transferred to the SCID, Minna, on March 20, 2026, for suspected thuggery and attempting to disrupt government activities during the Sallah visit,” Abiodun said.

He added that the suspect was later granted bail while investigations are ongoing.
The arrest reportedly followed an outburst in which Abdullahi, an electrician and father of four residing in Unguwan Bayi, Suleja, voiced concerns about the lack of basic amenities such as electricity and potable water in the area while the governor was addressing attendees at the Emir’s palace.

The incident has drawn public attention, with some residents and observers expressing differing views on whether the man’s action constituted a legitimate expression of grievance or a disruption of public order.

Abdullahi’s brother, Haruna Abdullahi, confirmed that he was released on bail on Tuesday evening after spending about five days in detention.

There have also been unverified claims suggesting that the arrest may have been ordered by the governor, though no official confirmation has been provided to support this allegation. When contacted, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Bologi Ibrahim, said he was not aware of the incident.

The episode has sparked broader conversations around citizens’ right to protest, freedom of expression, and how public grievances are handled during official engagements.
Meanwhile, the International Press Institute Nigeria has called on President Bola Tinubu to caution Governor Bago over alleged actions that could undermine press freedom and civic expression in the state.

In a statement signed by its Deputy President, Fidelis Mbah, and Legal Adviser, Tobi Soniyi, the group expressed concern over reported incidents involving journalists and media practitioners, urging authorities to respect democratic rights and avoid actions that may intimidate the press.

As of the time of filing this report, the Niger State Police Command said investigations into the matter are still ongoing.