Verydarkman Slams Niger Governor Over Dreadlocks Ban, Demands Apology

Nigerian social media critic Martins Otse, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM), has strongly condemned the recent order by Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, directing the arrest of individuals wearing dreadlocks.

The directive, issued during a security meeting in Minna on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, instructed security operatives to detain anyone keeping dreadlocks and to shave off their hair. Governor Bago claimed the move was part of efforts to curb rising insecurity in the state.

In a viral video, 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.”

Reacting to the controversial order, VDM described the directive as discriminatory and misguided, urging the governor to apologise to Nigerians who wear dreadlocks. He emphasized that wearing dreadlocks is a personal and cultural choice, not a symbol of criminality or irresponsibility.

“This is a shameful move against the youth,” VDM said. “Dreadlocks are not a crime. The governor should focus on policies that address real security issues, not stereotypes.”

The governor’s comments have triggered widespread backlash on social media, with many Nigerians calling the order unconstitutional and a violation of personal freedom and expression.

As public criticism mounts, rights activists and civil society groups are also demanding a retraction of the order and an official apology from the state government.