Police have confirmed the arrest and five-day detention of a Suleja resident who repeatedly shouted “no water, no light” in public, an action authorities described as causing a disturbance.
The Niger State Police Command said the man was taken into custody after his persistent chants drew a crowd and disrupted normal activity in the area. A police spokesperson told Sahara Reporters the detention was necessary to restore order.
“He was shouting ‘no water, no light’ for hours and attracting people. We had to act to prevent any breakdown of law and order,” the spokesperson said.
The resident was released after five days without formal charges being filed. No further details were given on his identity or the exact location of the incident within Suleja.
The case has drawn criticism from local rights groups, who argue that expressing frustration over the lack of electricity and water should not be treated as a criminal offence. Residents of Suleja and surrounding communities have frequently complained about prolonged power outages and irregular water supply in recent months.
