In a decisive move to clamp down on rising criminal activities and youth restiveness in Minna, the capital of Niger State, Governor Umaru Bago, has issued a sweeping Executive Order targeting thuggery, drug abuse, and associated crimes.
One of the orders is the ban on dreadlocks among the youths.
Individuals keeping dreadlock hairstyles are to be arrested and forcibly shaved. This, according to the governor, is part of an effort to dismantle the identity and networks of known street gangs.
The Executive Order, which takes immediate effect, outlines a series of stringent measures aimed at restoring peace, order, and public safety in the city.
Governor Bago made it clear that the state government will no longer tolerate the activities of violent gangs, drug peddlers, and those shielding them.
He emphasized that the order is not targeted at innocent citizens but at those who are hell-bent on disrupting the peace and security of the state. He called on residents to cooperate with security agencies and report any suspicious activity within their communities.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from the public, with some praising the bold steps while others expressed concern about potential human rights implications.
