Condemnation of the Arrest and Detention of Suleja Resident, Hamisu Abdullahi, for Shouting “No Water, No Light” During Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s Sallah Visit, and Demand for his Immediate Release, Respect for Citizens’ Rights, and an End to Intimidation

PRESS STATEMENT

TAKE IT BACK MOVEMENT (TIB), NIGER STATE CHAPTER

Condemnation of the Arrest and Detention of Suleja Resident, Hamisu Abdullahi, for Shouting “No Water, No Light” During Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s Sallah Visit, and Demand for his Immediate Release, Respect for Citizens’ Rights, and an End to Intimidation

The Take It Back Movement (TIB), Niger State Chapter, strongly condemns the arrest and detention of Hamisu Abdullahi, a resident of Suleja Local Government Area, who was reportedly arrested after shouting “No Water, No Light” during the Sallah homage visit of Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to the palace of the Emir of Suleja.

According to credible reports, Abdullahi, an electrician and father of four, was expressing frustration over the persistent lack of basic amenities in Suleja when he raised the slogan during the governor’s visit following Eid-el-Fitr prayers. His arrest reportedly occurred immediately after the incident, and he was subsequently taken into custody and remanded in prison.

The Take It Back Movement considers this development a disturbing abuse of power and a direct attack on the constitutional right of citizens to freedom of expression.

Shouting “No Water, No Light” is not a crime. It is a cry of frustration from a citizen demanding access to basic public services that government is duty-bound to provide. Across Suleja and many communities in Niger State, residents continue to struggle with poor electricity supply, inadequate water infrastructure, and deteriorating living conditions.

In any democracy, citizens must be free to voice their grievances without fear of intimidation, harassment, or imprisonment. The arrest and remand of Hamisu Abdullahi simply for expressing dissatisfaction with governance sends a dangerous and unacceptable message that criticism of government may be criminalized.

This action, if left unchecked, sets a troubling precedent that undermines democratic values and weakens the trust between government and the governed.

The Take It Back Movement therefore calls on the Niger State Government and relevant authorities to:

1. Ensure justice and the immediate and unconditional release of Hamisu Abdullahi.
2. End all forms of harassment, intimidation, or persecution of citizens who peacefully express their grievances.
3. Respect and uphold the constitutional rights of Nigerians, particularly the right to freedom of expression and dissent.
4. Focus on addressing the legitimate concerns of the people of Suleja and Niger State, including the urgent need for reliable water supply, electricity, and other basic public services.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago must understand that leadership requires listening to the voices of the people, not silencing them. Citizens should never be treated as criminals for demanding the basic necessities required for a dignified life.

The Take It Back Movement stands firmly with the people of Niger State and will continue to resist every attempt to suppress the democratic rights of Nigerians.

A government that arrests citizens for speaking the truth about their suffering is one that must urgently reflect on its commitment to democracy and accountability.

Signed:
Comrade Mohammed Audu
State Coordinator
Take It Back Movement (TIB)
Niger State Chapter