By Sulieman Ibrahim
Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has rescinded his controversial directive ordering security operatives to arrest and cut the dreadlocks of residents in Minna, following widespread criticism on social media.
At a security stakeholders’ meeting held on Tuesday, Governor Bago had instructed law enforcement officials to detain anyone found with dreadlocks, forcibly cut their hair, and impose fines. He stated, “Anybody that you find with dreadlocks, arrest, barb the hair, and fine the person. Nobody should carry any kind of haircut inside Minna. I have given marching orders to security agencies.”
However, the directive sparked outrage among Nigerians, prompting the governor to clarify his position the following day. At a subsequent meeting, Governor Bago explained that his earlier statement was misconstrued. “Yesterday we read a riot act on hooliganism and people misunderstood our words for people who have dreadlocks. We don’t have a problem with dreadlocks but we have a problem with cultists here with dreadlocks,” he said.
He further extended an invitation to investors, assuring that Niger State welcomes all, regardless of hairstyle. “So if you have any business and you have dreadlocks, please come to Niger State. All that is media propaganda,” the governor added.
The incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding cultural expression and the importance of clear communication from public officials.
