Niger Gov orders arrest, shaving, punishment of anyone with dreadlocks

Joseph Irikefe

The Governor of Niger State, Umar Mohammed Bago, has directed security agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone found wearing dreadlocks across the state, as part of a “broader crackdown on insecurity.”

This directive 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.

The ban, effective immediately, is intended to address rising violence and gang activities within the state capital.

Governor Bago’s recent orders form part of a comprehensive strategy to curb criminality, with an emphasis on public safety and security. The ban on motorcycles and tricycles follows reports of killings and unrest linked to violent groups using these vehicles for their operations.

He said, “Rascality in Minna anybody that you find with a dreadlock arrest him and barb his hair. I have given