The Niger State Police Command has arrested and subsequently released a 38-year-old electrician, Hamisu Abdullahi, for allegedly disrupting Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s Sallah visit to the Emir of Suleja by chanting “no water, no light.”
The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 38-year-old Hamisu Abdullahi, an electrician and father of four, following a protest during Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s traditional Sallah visit to the Emir of Suleja. Abdullahi was reportedly taken into custody after shouting the phrase “no water, no light” as the Governor arrived at the palace following Eid-el-Fitr prayers on Friday. State Police Spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the transfer of the suspect to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna, noting that the arrest was linked to “suspected thuggery and attempting to disrupt government activities during the Sallah visit.”
The suspect was detained for five days before being granted bail on Tuesday evening, a development confirmed by his brother, Haruna Abdullahi. While local reports and residents suggested the arrest may have been carried out on the direct orders of the Governor, such claims remain unverified by independent sources. When reached for comment, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, stated he was unaware of the specific incident involving the Unguwan Bayi resident.
The police have maintained that the arrest was a measure to prevent the breakdown of law and order during a high-profile government function. Reflecting on the official police position, SP Abiodun stated, “One Hamisu Abdullahi, 38, of Suleja, was arrested and transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Minna, on March 20, 2026, for suspected thuggery and attempting to disrupt government activities during the Sallah visit.” He further clarified the current status of the case, adding, “However, he was later granted bail while investigation continues.”
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