The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 38-year-old Hamisu Abdullahi for allegedly shouting “no water, no light” during Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s visit to the Emir of Suleja following Eid al-Fitr prayers on Friday.
Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the incident, stating that the suspect was arrested for allegedly attempting to disrupt official proceedings during the governor’s Sallah visit.
“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 said.
Haruna Abdullahi, the brother of the suspect, confirmed that he was granted bail on Tuesday evening after spending five days in detention.
The suspect, Hamisu Abdullahi, an electrician and father of four living in Unguwan Bayi, Suleja, was reportedly arrested after shouting the phrase at the emir’s palace during the visit of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
There were allegations that the arrest was carried out on the governor’s orders, although this could not be independently verified. When contacted, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, said he was unaware of the incident.
Meanwhile, the International Press Institute Nigeria had earlier called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to caution Governor Bago over actions that could undermine press freedom in the state.
In a statement signed by its Deputy President, Fidelis Mbah, and Legal Adviser, Tobi Soniyi, the organisation alleged that certain actions by the governor and his officials have infringed on the rights of journalists and media organisations.