Governor Umar Mohammed Bago of Niger State has issued a controversial directive ordering the arrest and forced shaving of anyone spotted wearing dreadlocks across the state, citing concerns over rising insecurity and gang-related violence.
The directive, which took immediate effect on Monday, April 22, comes as part of a broader crackdown on crime in the state capital, Minna, and its environs.
It follows the recent imposition of a 12-hour daily curfew on commercial motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Kekenapep), restricting their movement from 6pm to 6am.
Governor Bago, while addressing security operatives and residents, linked the rising tide of violence and drug-related crimes in the state to youth involvement in gang activities, which he alleged are often associated with certain hairstyles and appearances.
“Rascality in Minna — anybody that you find with dreadlocks, arrest him and barb his hair,” the governor said in a fiery statement.
“I have given you much order, the security agencies: anybody you find with a weapon, deal with him as an armed robber.”
He further declared a zero-tolerance stance against drug abuse and criminal hideouts, warning that any residence found to be harbouring criminals or drug dealers would be demolished.
“This moment is fire for fire. Any attempt to harass any security officer is an attempt to harass the government of Niger State.
“We are going to come with the full force of government and descend on you,” Bago warned.
The governor also urged parents to caution their children and wards to avoid behaviors that could attract the attention of security operatives under the new measures.
In line with the directive, security agencies have been mandated to intensify surveillance, carry out raids on suspected criminal hideouts, and enforce the new orders without exception.
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