Governor Bago makes u-turn after backlash on stance on dreadlocks

Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has reversed an earlier directive ordering the arrest and punishment of individuals with dreadlocks in Minna, the state capital, following widespread public criticism.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ security meeting at the government house on Tuesday, April 22, Bago had instructed security operatives to arrest residents wearing dreadlocks, cut their hair, and impose fines on them. He emphasised a crackdown on what he described as “unacceptable haircuts” in the state capital, directing security agencies to take immediate action.

“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,” the governor had said.

The remarks sparked a wave of condemnation from civil society groups, human rights advocates, and members of the public who viewed the order as a violation of personal freedoms and an overreach of executive power.

In response to the backlash, Governor Bago clarified his position during a public address on Wednesday, April 23. He denied any general hostility toward people with dreadlocks, attributing his earlier comments to concerns about criminal elements allegedly using dreadlocks to mask cult-related activities.

“Yesterday we read a riot act on hooliganism and people misunderstood our words for people who have dreadlocks,” he said. “We don’t have a problem with dreadlocks but we have a problem with the cult here with dreadlocks. So if you have any business and you have dreadlocks, please come to Niger State. All that is media propaganda.”

The governor also used the opportunity to invite investors and professionals to the state, emphasising that it remains open to all, regardless of personal appearance.