Umar Bago, governor of Niger state, has clarified his earlier directive to security operatives to arrest individuals with dreadlocks in Minna, the state capital.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ security meeting held in Minna on Tuesday, Bago said security operatives should cut the dreadlocks of residents and impose fines on them.
Bago said his administration has zero tolerance for “rascality”.
However, following widespread criticism from Nigerians, the governor reversed his decision on Wednesday.
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Bago claimed he was he was misinterpreted, adding that his comments were specifically directed at those involved in cult activities within the state.
Bago reassured investors that Niger state welcomes business owners, regardless of their hairstyle.
“Yesterday, we read a riot act on hooliganism and people misunderstood our words for people who have dreadlocks,” he said.
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“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.”
