The Niger State Police Command has taken a 38-year-old man, Hamisu Abdullahi, into custody for allegedly disrupting the Sallah visit of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to the Emir of Suleja. The incident occurred after Eid-el-Fitr prayers on Friday. According to the police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, Hamisu was arrested for attempting to disrupt government activities during the governor's visit.

The suspect was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna on March 20, 2026. However, he was later granted bail while the investigation continues. Hamisu's brother, Haruna Abdullahi, confirmed that he was released on bail on Tuesday evening after spending five days in detention.

Hamisu, an electrician and father of four, resides in Unguwan Bayi, Suleja. He was reportedly arrested after shouting the phrase 'no water, no light' at the emir's palace during the governor's visit. There were claims that the arrest was carried out on the orders of the governor, though this could not be independently verified.

The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to caution Governor Bago against actions that could impede press freedom in the state. The organisation expressed concern over the infringement of journalists' rights and media organisations' duties by the governor and his officials.

💡 NaijaBuzz Take

The arrest of Hamisu Abdullahi raises serious questions about the Niger State government's respect for fundamental rights. The alleged disruption of government activities is a thin pretext for silencing dissenting voices. Governor Bago must take concrete steps to protect press freedom and ensure that citizens can express themselves without fear of retribution. The Niger State government's actions have significant implications for the country's democratic fabric, and President Tinubu must take a firm stance against any attempts to undermine the media's role in holding those in power accountable.