Gov Bago orders arrest, barbing of anyone seen with dreadlocks in Minna

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, has issued a controversial directive ordering the arrest of individuals spotted with dreadlocks in Minna, the state capital, citing security concerns.

The governor made the announcement during a security stakeholders’ meeting held on Tuesday, which included traditional rulers and security agency representatives.

Bago expressed zero tolerance for what he described as “rascality” in the city.

In his words: “No tolerance for rascality in Minna. Anybody you find with dreadlocks, arrest him, shave his hair, and fine him.”

He further instructed security personnel to deal decisively with anyone caught carrying weapons, declaring such individuals should be treated as armed robbers.

Governor Bago also called on parents to take control of their children’s behavior, warning:

“Parents, warn your children, warn your wards. From this moment, it’s 100% fire for fire.”

As part of measures to curb rising insecurity, the governor imposed a strict 6pm to 6am curfew in Minna.

The restriction affects the movement of commercial motorcyclists and tricycle operators, with only those attending to serious medical emergencies exempted.

Bago emphasized the importance of securing the lives of residents, directing community leaders to keep records of visitors in their domains.

He also warned that any residence found harboring criminals or drug peddlers would face demolition.

The order follows a spike in violent attacks and youth-related unrest in the city, prompting swift government action to restore calm and order.