Niger Gov Orders Arrest, Fine For Individuals With Dreadlocks
Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has directed security agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone found wearing dreadlocks across the state as part of a “broader crackdown on insecurity.”
This comes shortly after the governor announced a 12‑hour ban on commercial motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Kekenapep) in Minna, which will be in effect daily from 6pm to 6am.
According to the governor, the ban is intended to address rising violence and gang activities within the state capital.
The ban on motorcycles and tricycles follows reports of killings and unrest linked to violent groups using these vehicles for their operations.
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He said, “Rascality in Minna. Anybody that you find with a dreadlock, arrest him and barb his hair. Anybody you find with a weapon deal with him as an armed robber so for parents, warn your children warn your words from 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 power of the government and descend on you.
“And any house found harboring criminals should be demolished over development National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other agencies clamp down on drug dealers zero percent tolerance in Niger states as the state is not for useless people.”
Alongside the ban, the governor warned that properties found harbouring criminals or engaged in the trade of illegal drugs would be demolished.
He further called on parents to ensure their children comply with the new security measures.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
