Human rights group Amnesty International has condemned the arrest of 38-year-old Hamisu Abdullahi, a resident of Suleja, following his vocal complaint about the lack of electricity and water during Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s visit to the Emir of Suleja’s palace.
Abdullahi was reportedly detained after Eid-el-Fitr prayers on Friday for allegedly attempting to disrupt official activities. Police confirmed his arrest, stating that it was connected to actions that could interfere with government operations during the governor’s visit.
In a statement, Amnesty International criticised the arrest, urging authorities not only to release Abdullahi but also to cease all punitive actions against him for exercising his right to free expression. The organisation described Abdullahi’s remarks as a peaceful expression of concern over public services and stressed that citizens should not face arrest for raising such issues.
“No one should be arrested for saying the truth or telling the truth to power. What Hamisu Abdullahi said is a brave, courageous, and peaceful dissent. Instead of being arrested he should have been listened to,” the statement said.
The rights group also highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing challenges with access to electricity and water, noting that complaints about basic amenities are a daily reality for many citizens. “This case shows just how far the authorities in Nigeria can go to silence their critics,” Amnesty International said.
Following his arrest, Abdullahi was initially held at the Suleja police division before being transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Minna. He was later granted bail under conditions that included reporting to the police headquarters in Minna and paying N50,000.