Governor Niger Bago Recanss: I have no problems with Dreadlocks

Following a public backlash, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of the State of Niger said he had no problems with people who wear Dreadlocks.
Bago, who spoke on Wednesday in Minna, clarified his previous position Tuesday, saying that his administration did not target citizens based on the aspect.
He explained that his comments on Tuesday were misunderstood and brought out of the context.
“Our message was against thug. Unfortunately, it was twisted to appear as if they are targeting people based on the aspect. We have no problems with the Dreadlocks. The problem is with the criminal cults that have adopted Dreadlocks as part of their identity. If you have the Dreadlocks and you are here to do legitimate business, Niger State is open to you.”

The governor described the recourse as “media propaganda” and insisted on the fact that state security operations are aimed at criminal groups that threaten peace and public security.

“This is simply media propaganda,” said Bago. “We are looking for worship groups that are becoming a threat to peace and security, not innocent citizens”.