Governor orders arrest of individuals with dreadlocks in Niger State

Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago, has sparked controversy after announcing a crackdown on individuals with dreadlocks, ordering law enforcement agencies to arrest anyone caught with the hairstyle in the state. The governor’s remarks, which have since drawn widespread attention, were made during a public event where he was seen addressing security agencies. The directive was shared in a video that is currently trending on X (formerly Twitter).

In the video, Governor Bago appeared resolute, warning against what he called “rascality” in the state capital, Minna. He issued a stern order to the police and other security agents, saying, “No tolerance for rascality in Minna. Anybody you find with dreadlocks, arrest him, shave his hair, and fine him.”

He further emphasised his discontent with such styles, adding, “Nobody should carry any kind of hair again. I’ve given the security agencies a marching order. Anybody found with a weapon should be treated as an armed robber.”

The governor also called on parents to take more responsibility for their children’s actions, urging them to warn their children about the new directive. He stressed, “Parents, warn your children, warn your wards. From this moment, it’s 100% fire for fire.”

The video has since generated a great deal of reaction online, with many Nigerians taking to the comments section to express their views. Some have voiced disapproval, while others have critiqued the governor’s decision to focus on dreadlocks instead of more pressing issues facing the state and the country as a whole.

Here are some reactions from Nigerians online:

@mikeoriv: “Everything is going forward in this life except this country.”

@mck1nzy_: “Na God say make I run comot that jungle, dem for barb me wetin no good.”

@Ms_Fej: “Is dreadlocks the problem of Nigerians! All these misplaced priorities by our leaders!! Smh.”

@Plug08066: “Imagine this stupid fool. How about cutting off anyone who keeps the beard.”

@ayo30bg: “People with bushy beard should be arrested too!”

@walefgs: “Many of these leaders just need to kpai for us to move forward fr.”

@001Rcfv: “Most times i dey vex say I be Nigerian but out of everything I dey always thank God say Ino be aboki.”

@Ze__La_: “Dreadlocks? Of all things to focus on?”