Operatives of the Department of State Services have arrested Bello Bodejo, the President of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, in Jalingo, Taraba State, shortly after he formally announced his intention to contest for the Taraba Central Senatorial seat under the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
The development occurred on Thursday night, just hours after Bodejo arrived in the state capital aboard a private aircraft that landed at Danbaba Suntai Airport at about 1:20 p.m. His arrival reportedly attracted a large crowd of supporters drawn from the five local government areas that make up the Taraba Central Senatorial District, signalling early mobilisation for his political ambition.
Upon arrival, Bodejo proceeded directly to political engagements, including a visit to the APC state secretariat in Jalingo where he officially declared his senatorial aspiration. During the event, he addressed party members, supporters, and journalists, confirming that he had purchased the party’s nomination form and was fully prepared to contest the primary election.
He maintained a firm stance during his declaration, insisting that he would not withdraw from the race under any form of pressure. According to him, his decision to run was based on a desire to represent his constituency effectively at the national level and contribute to development in the region.
However, shortly after the political engagements, Bodejo was reportedly picked up by DSS operatives following a visit to some security formations in the state alongside his associates. The circumstances surrounding the arrest remain unclear, and no official explanation has been provided by the security agency as of the time of filing this report.
A close aide to the Miyetti Allah leader, Umar, confirmed the arrest, stating that it took place shortly after Bodejo’s interactions at the APC secretariat and subsequent engagements with security personnel. He added that the individuals who accompanied him were asked to leave the premises immediately after his detention.
Umar further disclosed that the whereabouts of Bodejo were unknown to his family and political associates at the time of reporting. He expressed concern over the lack of communication from security authorities regarding the reason for the arrest or his current location.
The arrest has generated uncertainty among supporters and political stakeholders in Taraba State, many of whom had gathered earlier in the day to welcome his senatorial declaration. His entry into the race had already attracted attention within political circles due to his prominence as a socio-cultural leader and his influence within the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore organization.
This is not the first time Bodejo has been arrested by security operatives. In 2024, he was previously detained by the DSS over allegations linked to the formation of a vigilante group in Nasarawa State. That incident also drew public attention following a security operation at the organization’s headquarters along the Abuja–Keffi Expressway.
His repeated encounters with security agencies have continued to generate debate, particularly in relation to his public activities and political engagements. However, no official link has been established between his latest arrest and his declaration to contest for the Senate.
As of the time of this report, the DSS has not released any statement explaining the reason for his detention, while the APC has also remained silent on the development. Political observers note that the incident could heighten tension within the party’s internal selection process ahead of the forthcoming primaries.
Meanwhile, supporters of Bodejo continue to await official clarification from security authorities, as uncertainty surrounds both the motive for the arrest and his current whereabouts.
