Reactions trail Bago’s order on dreadlocks

The Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago has issued a controversial directive ordering security agencies to arrest anyone found wearing dreadlocks in the state.

In a video circulating on social media, Governor Bago, speaking at a gathering that included security operatives and other key stakeholders, instructed that individuals spotted with dreadlocks be apprehended, have their hair shaved, and be fined.

“From today henceforth, anybody you find with dreadlock in Niger State, arrest them, barb their hair, and fine them,” the governor declared, as the crowd listened.

Governor Bago didn’t stop there. He further issued a matching order to security agencies to treat anyone caught with a weapon as an armed robber, stressing that no one should be spared in the fight against criminal elements in the state.

The governor’s sweeping statements have since triggered a flurry of reactions online, with many Nigerians questioning the legality, human rights implications, and fairness of targeting individuals based on hairstyle.

Critics say the dreadlocks order could open the door to abuse and profiling of youths, while others have expressed concern over the vagueness of the governor’s directive on weapons, calling for clearer guidelines and respect for due process.

Read some netizens’ reactions below;

@mrklassiq: Under the law , does he even have the right to do this ?

@iamhistory_: We are not even close to being serious in this country

@lekside34: In 2025 oooo
How do I explain this to my colleagues in the office ooo
A state governor in Nigeria told the security agency to cut any dreadlocks in 2025… Omoh

@ichie: Misplaced Priorities

@smartxx231: If you want to see a man true color. Give him power