“Cut Your Beard Before You Ban Dreadlocks” — Daddy Showkey Slams Niger Governor

Veteran Nigerian singer Daddy Showkey has publicly condemned Niger State Governor Umar Bago over his recent directive targeting individuals with dreadlocks in Minna. The musician, known for his iconic dreadlocks and street-style music, took to Instagram to express his disapproval, questioning the fairness of the governor’s order and calling for him to “cut his beard” before targeting others’ hairstyles.

The controversy began on Tuesday when Governor Bago, during a stakeholders’ security meeting, instructed security operatives to arrest residents with dreadlocks and enforce fines. The directive sparked outrage, prompting the governor to clarify a day later that the policy was aimed solely at individuals involved in cult-related activities.

Despite the clarification, Daddy Showkey, whose real name is John Odafe Asiemo, slammed the governor’s approach. In his post, he announced the cancellation of his planned trip to Niger State, citing the order as a deterrent. “I dey come to Minna but now that you have asked your security agents to cut off dreadlocks, so hold your state but make you cut your beer beer,” he wrote.

Showkey, a cultural icon from Olomoro Kingdom in Delta State’s Isoko South area, rose to fame in the 1990s with his unique sound and the popular ‘Galala’ dance. He has previously shared that his music career began while working in a motor park.