Yemi Obafemi
In a bold directive, Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has announced a new zero-tolerance stance, ordering security agencies to clamp down on individuals sporting dreadlocks and unconventional hairstyles within the state.
The governor Issued a stern warning against what he described as rising acts of “rascality” within the state, particularly in the capital, Minna.
Speaking during high-level stakeholders’ security meeting at the Government House on Tuesday, the governor said: “We will have zero tolerance for rascality. Anybody that you find with dreadlocks, arrest, barb the hair, and fine him,” Governor Bago declared, emphasizing a no-nonsense approach to public conduct. He added that no form of “any kind of haircut” would be tolerated within Minna.
The governor further warned parents to caution their children, stressing that the government’s new approach would be “100% fire-for-fire.”
In a continuation of the tough measures, Governor Bago also directed that any house found to be sheltering criminals would be demolished, stating, “Niger State is not for useless people.”
Other measures announced by Governor Bago include new restrictions on the operation of commercial motorcycles and tricycles, which are now prohibited from operating between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., except in cases of medical emergencies.
Additionally, the governor instructed traditional rulers and community leaders including district, village, and ward heads to maintain accurate records of all residents living within their jurisdictions.
