In a bold and controversial move aimed at stamping out rising insecurity and street violence, the Executive Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Umar Mohammed Bago, has signed a sweeping executive order targeting thug-related activities within the state capital, Minna.
The executive order, announced on April 22, 2025, includes a range of strict measures that are already sparking debates among civil society groups, legal experts, and residents.
Key provisions of the order include:
Zero Tolerance for Weapons: Anyone found in possession of weapons — including knives and sticks — will be treated as an armed robber. If killed during apprehension, the deceased’s family will be required to pay for the bullet used before the body is released.
Crackdown on Dreadlocks: Individuals wearing dreadlocks are to be arrested and forcibly shaved, a move that has drawn immediate criticism from human rights advocates citing discrimination and cultural profiling.
Transport Curfew Enforced: A new curfew prohibits the operation of commercial tricycles (Keke Napep) and motorcycles (Okada) between 6 PM and 6 AM across Minna.
Bail Seeking Criminalized: Anyone attempting to secure the release of an arrested thug will themselves be detained, in a bid to discourage community backing of criminal elements.
Traditional Leaders Held Accountable: Village heads (Mai-Angwa, Hakimi) found harboring thugs will be dethroned and arrested, shifting responsibility for security to local leadership.
War on Drugs: Houses involved in selling illicit drugs will be demolished, and all occupants arrested. Additionally, any vehicle entering Minna with drugs will be confiscated and become government property.
Special Court for Thuggery: A special court, to be overseen by the Chief Judge of Niger State, is to be established for speedy trials and convictions of individuals charged with thuggery-related offenses.
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High-Surveillance Zones: Specific areas, notably Angwa Daji and Barki Sale, will be placed under heightened security surveillance due to their alleged involvement in criminal activities.
“Operation Flush” Realigned: The security outfit “Operation Flush” will now operate directly under the office of the Governor to enhance coordination and control.
Governor Bago stated that the order was necessary to “reclaim Minna from the grip of thuggery, insecurity, and societal decay,” emphasizing that law-abiding citizens have nothing to fear.
However, legal experts warn that several aspects of the order may contravene constitutional rights and due process.
Critics argue that labeling dreadlocks as a sign of criminality or requiring families to pay for bullets could open the administration to lawsuits and public backlash.
As the order takes immediate effect, residents of Minna are bracing for what could be a tense period of enforcement.
Civil rights groups and opposition figures are expected to challenge the legality of some of the directives in court in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the Governor remains defiant, stating, “We must restore peace and order by any means necessary.”