On April 22, 2025, Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago of Niger State issued a comprehensive executive order aimed at eradicating thuggery and restoring peace in Minna, the state capital. This decisive action follows a series of violent incidents, including the tragic deaths of two individuals and multiple injuries during recent clashes attributed to local gangs such as the Yandaba.
Key Provisions of the Executive Order
The executive order encompasses several stringent measures:
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Weapon Possession: Individuals found in possession of weapons, including knives and sticks, are to be treated as armed robbers. In fatal encounters, families of the deceased may be required to cover the cost of ammunition used.
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Appearance Regulations: Persons maintaining dreadlock hairstyles are subject to arrest and mandatory haircuts, reflecting efforts to dismantle gang-related identities.
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Curfew Enforcement: A curfew from 6 PM to 6 AM has been imposed on tricycle (Keke Napep) and motorcycle (Okada) operations within Minna to curb nocturnal criminal activities.
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Bail Restrictions: Individuals attempting to secure bail for suspected thugs will themselves face arrest, aiming to disrupt support networks for criminal elements.
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Community Accountability: Local leaders, including Mai-Angwa, Hakimi, and village heads, who harbor or fail to report thugs, face dethronement and arrest, promoting communal responsibility.
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Drug Enforcement: Residences involved in the sale of illicit drugs are subject to demolition, with occupants arrested to dismantle drug distribution networks.
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Judicial Measures: A special court under the supervision of the Chief Judge of Niger State is to be established to expedite the prosecution of thuggery cases, ensuring swift justice.
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Security Monitoring: Areas such as Angwan Daji and Barki Sale are placed under heightened security surveillance due to their susceptibility to criminal activities.
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Operational Oversight: The “Operation Flush” security initiative is now directly managed by the Governor’s office, ensuring centralized command and control.
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Vehicle Inspections: Vehicles entering Minna found transporting illicit drugs will be confiscated and become government property, aiming to intercept drug trafficking.
Collaborative Efforts and Community Involvement
Complementing the government’s actions, the Emir of Minna, Dr. Umaru Faruq Bahago, inaugurated a 31-member committee dedicated to combating youth restiveness, thuggery, and substance abuse. This committee is tasked with working alongside law enforcement agencies to implement preventive measures and rehabilitative programs.
The committee has also engaged with the Legal Aid Council to ensure that individuals arrested under the new directives receive fair legal representation, balancing strict enforcement with adherence to legal standards.
Public Response and Future Outlook
The executive order has elicited mixed reactions from the public. While many residents express relief and support for the government’s decisive action against rising insecurity, human rights advocates raise concerns about potential abuses and the need for safeguards to protect civil liberties.
As Niger State navigates this critical juncture, the success of these measures will depend on effective implementation, community cooperation, and continuous oversight to ensure that the pursuit of security does not compromise fundamental rights.
Governor Bago’s administration remains steadfast in its commitment to restoring peace and order in Minna, signaling a new era of governance that prioritizes the safety and well-being of its citizens.