Niger State governor Umar Bago has directed security agents to arrest any individual wearing dreadlocks in his domain and also dreadlocks must be shaved on the spot and user fined.
This development came after a stakeholders’ security meeting Tuesday at the Government House Minna. Bago noted that there is zero tolerance for criminality in Niger State and such behavior would appropriately be dealt with.
“We will have zero tolerance for rascality. Anybody that you find with dreadlocks, arrest, barb the hair, and fine him,” Bago declared.
“Nobody should carry any kind of dreadlocks and funny haircuts inside Minna. I have given marching orders to security agencies.”
Bago also issued a stern warning to parents, urging them to caution their children as his administration would begin implementing stricter security policies.
“Parents should warn their children. From this moment, it’s 100% fire-for-fire,” he said. “Also, any house found harbouring criminals should be demolished. Niger State is not for useless people.”
Among other measures announced were restrictions on commercial motorcycles and tricycles, which are now banned from operating between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., except for emergency medical purposes.
The governor also directed traditional and community leaders, including district, village and ward heads, to ensure accurate documentation of all residents in their areas.
However, following a backlash on his orders, Governor Bago clarified Wednesday that his target was a particular cult group in Minna who are wearing dreadlocks.
“Yesterday, we read a riot act on hooliganism, and people misconstrued our words for people who have dreadlocks. We don’t have a problem with dreadlocks, but we have a problem with the cult here with dreadlocks. So, if you have dreadlocks and you have business, please come to Niger State,” Bago said.
“We are only driving that cult that is becoming a menace in Niger State. Thank you.”
