Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has directed security agencies to arrest individuals wearing dreadlocks and impose penalties as part of efforts to curb rising insecurity in the state.
In a video that surfaced on social media platform X on Tuesday, the governor emphasized zero tolerance for unruly behavior in the state capital, Minna.
“Anyone seen with dreadlocks should be detained, have their hair cut, and be fined accordingly,” Bago said.
He issued strict instructions to law enforcement officers, saying, “No one should be allowed to wear any unusual hairstyle. Security operatives have received clear directives on this.”
Bago, who tied the move to growing security concerns, also ordered that anyone caught carrying weapons be treated as a suspected armed robber.
He warned parents to caution their children and youths, stating, “From now on, it’s fire for fire. Any assault on security personnel is a direct affront to the government of Niger State.”
The governor further threatened that buildings found to be sheltering criminals would be demolished.
He urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other security outfits to intensify efforts in arresting drug traffickers and users.
“There’s no room for miscreants here. This is a direct order,” he said.
Bago’s statements followed widespread concerns over violence in other parts of Nigeria, especially Benue State, where over 70 people were reportedly killed in recent attacks.
Earlier on the same day, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu addressed stakeholders in Makurdi, assuring them of the federal government’s commitment to restoring peace.
Ribadu stressed that Benue is not alone in facing security threats, as the country at large continues to battle various forms of unrest.