Prominent human rights lawyer Malcolm Omirhobo has criticized Governor Umar Bago of Niger State for allegedly ordering the arrest of individuals wearing dreadlocks, describing the directive as unlawful and a misuse of power.
In a public statement on Wednesday, Omirhobo condemned the governor’s stance, asserting that there is no legal framework in Nigeria that criminalizes hairstyles such as dreadlocks. He warned that neither the governor nor security agencies have the constitutional authority to arrest citizens based on their appearance.
“There is no law in Nigeria that backs such an order. Governor Bago has no legal powers to arrest or instruct the arrest of anyone simply for wearing dreadlocks,” Omirhobo stated. “Security operatives must also understand that they are not empowered to enforce personal biases or unconstitutional directives.”
The lawyer urged the governor to redirect his focus toward tackling the pressing insecurity plaguing Niger State, instead of “chasing shadows” and targeting innocent citizens based on stereotypes.
Niger State has been facing persistent security challenges, including banditry and communal violence, prompting calls for more strategic leadership and law enforcement responses. Omirhobo’s remarks have added to the growing public scrutiny of the governor’s priorities and approach to governance.
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