Governor Bago issued the directive during a security meeting on Tuesday, stating that it was part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity in the region. The order, however, has sparked outrage, particularly from those who see it as a misguided and discriminatory policy targeting youth and those with alternative hairstyles.
In a video posted to his Instagram account on Thursday, Daddy Showkey—renowned for his iconic dreadlocks and long-standing influence in Nigeria’s music scene—blasted the governor’s decision, questioning the logic behind equating dreadlocks with criminal activity.
“Mohammed Umar, na Dada be your problem?” Showkey asked pointedly.
“I dey come to Minna, but now that you asked your security agents to cut off dreadlocks, so hold your state. But make you cut your beer beer [beard] first.”
The Ajegunle-born singer didn’t just criticise the policy but also announced the cancellation of his planned visit to Niger State in protest of what he sees as an unjust and discriminatory stance. His remarks have resonated with fans and civil rights advocates alike, with many taking to social media to decry the move as a violation of personal freedom and cultural expression.
The governor's comments have reignited debates about profiling based on appearance, a longstanding issue in Nigeria where youth have often been unfairly targeted due to hairstyles, fashion choices, or tattoos.
Daddy Showkey’s strong rebuke adds a powerful voice to the pushback, reminding authorities that tackling insecurity requires more than surface-level judgments, and that efforts must be rooted in justice, fairness, and genuine strategy—not scapegoating based on looks.