The Governor of Niger State, Umar Bago, in a move to curb the growing insecurity in Minna, the state capital, has imposed a curfew from 6 pm to 6 am and directed security operatives to treat anyone found with knives and sticks as robbers, and arrest those sporting dreadlocks on their heads.
The governor made this announcement during a security meeting held at the Government House on Tuesday.
Governor Bago also revealed that the curfew would also restrict the movement of commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators between 6 pm and 6 am. However, he clarified that medical emergencies would be exempt from the curfew.
“The recent security challenges in the state capital have reached an alarming level, and we can no longer sit idly while criminals continue to terrorise innocent citizens. This curfew is part of the urgent steps we are taking to restore peace,” Bago said.
“Anyone found in possession of any weapon, including knives and sticks, should be treated as an armed robber, and if killed, the parents must pay for the bullet before releasing the corpse. Anyone keeping dreadlock hair should be arrested and shaved.”
The governor also instructed district, village, and ward heads to ensure proper documentation of visitors within their domains.
He warned that any house found harbouring suspected criminals or drug cartels would be demolished.
Minna has recently seen a disturbing rise in thuggery, attacks, and killings, leading to heightened fears among residents.
Governor Bago emphasised that the state government is committed to taking decisive actions to end the violence and restore safety to the city.
He stated that the measure was part of efforts to curb the resurgence of insecurity in the state capital.
