“We Cannot Allow Criminal Elements to Take Over” — Niger Governor Declares Curfew in Minna

By Okpere Sharon Omoye 

Minna, Niger State – In a decisive move to curb rising insecurity, the Niger State Government has declared a daily curfew on commercial motorcycle and tricycle operations within Minna, the state capital. The restriction, effective from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., was announced on Tuesday by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago during a high-level security meeting at the Government House.

The measure follows a recent wave of violent unrest in the city that led to the arrest of over 20 young individuals, many of whom were riders of motorcycles and tricycles. The government believes that the restriction will help restore peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.

“We cannot allow criminal elements to take over our streets,” Governor Bago stated. “This curfew is temporary, but it is necessary to ensure the safety of our people.”

The governor explained that the decision was not taken lightly and assured that medical emergencies would be exempt from the restriction. He called on residents to remain calm and cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies.

As part of the new security strategy, traditional leaders across the emirate—including district, village, and ward heads—have been directed to keep proper records of residents within their jurisdictions. The governor issued a stern warning: any house found to be harbouring criminals will be demolished, and buildings used for the sale of hard drugs will face the same fate.

“Insecurity does not arise by chance,” Bago said. “It flourishes in communities where there is silence and complicity. That silence must end.”

The governor urged traditional rulers to take their roles seriously and support the government in its efforts to secure the city. He emphasized that community leadership comes with responsibility, particularly in matters of security.

Beyond the government and traditional institutions, Bago also directed his message at parents and guardians. He urged them to take greater responsibility for the actions of their children and to discourage involvement in violence or criminal behavior.

“Let every parent warn their child,” he said. “Anyone caught disrupting peace or engaging in criminal activity will be dealt with according to the law.”

He reaffirmed the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on thuggery, drugs, and lawlessness, stressing that governance is a shared responsibility.

“Security is not the duty of the government alone,” he noted. “We must all come together—leaders, citizens, parents, and institutions—to build a safer, stronger Niger State.”

The announcement has sparked mixed feelings across Minna. While many residents support the government’s tough stance, others worry about the impact on livelihoods—especially those who depend on night-time operations for their income.

“This curfew may be tough on us, but if it means our children can walk home safely, it’s worth it,” said Aisha Abdullahi, a mother of four living in Tunga.

For Ibrahim, a commercial tricycle rider, the measure brings uncertainty. “My business mostly picks up in the evenings. I just hope this won’t go on for too long,” he said.

Still, many agree that the city has reached a critical point, and urgent steps are needed to restore calm.

As the sun sets over Minna, and the new rules take effect, the people of the city wait—hoping this bold step will bring the peace and security they desperately seek.

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