Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has clarified that his administration’s recent crackdown on hooliganism and cult-related activities is not targeted at individuals with dreadlocks, but rather at a specific cult group associated with criminal behavior in the state.
The clarification comes amid public backlash and media reports suggesting that the state government was profiling individuals based on appearance.
Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, Governor Bago addressed the controversy that followed his recent remarks.
“Yesterday, we read a riot act on hooliganism, and people misconstrued our words for people who have dreadlocks,” he said.
He continued, “We don’t have a problem with dreadlocks, but we have a problem with the cult here with dreadlocks. So, if you have dreadlocks and you have business, please come to Niger State. All that is media propaganda.”
The governor reiterated that the state’s security efforts are focused solely on tackling cultism and criminal networks that have become a menace, particularly in urban centers.
“We are only driving that cult that is becoming a menace in Niger State. Thank you,” Bago concluded. Full Details
The clarification is expected to douse tensions and correct what the government has described as a misrepresentation of its anti-crime campaign.
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