Veteran Nigerian musician, Daddy Showkey, has strongly criticized Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, over his recent directive ordering the arrest of individuals wearing dreadlocks.
The governor’s controversial order, captured in a viral video circulating on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), was issued during a public address to security operatives. In the clip, Governor Bago labeled dreadlocks as a symbol of “rascality” and instructed law enforcement officers to detain anyone sporting the hairstyle in the state capital, Minna.
Reacting to the directive, Daddy Showkey, widely known for his signature dreadlocks, questioned the rationale behind the order.
He challenged the governor to explain how dreadlocks contribute to insecurity in the country.
The singer revealed that he had canceled a planned visit to Minna in response to the governor’s remarks, expressing concern over the profiling of individuals based on appearance.
In a direct rebuke, Daddy Showkey urged Governor Bago to trim his own beard before targeting others for their personal grooming choices.
“Is it dreadlocks that are causing insecurity?” he asked, adding, “If you want to ban dreadlocks, then start by cutting your beard.”
The singer’s comments have sparked widespread debate online, with many condemning the governor’s directive as discriminatory and misplaced.