The Plateau State chapter of the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has called on the state’s Commissioner of Police, CP Emmanuel Adesina, to instruct officers to stop using citizens’ appearances and hairstyles—particularly those of musicians—as a basis for intimidation and wrongful arrests.
Comrade Color Humphrey Iroegbu, the PMAN Governor of Plateau State, made this appeal in a letter addressed to the Police Commissioner. The letter, shared with journalists in Jos on Friday, raises alarm over what the entertainment industry perceives as a targeted campaign against musicians and other creatives in the state.
Iroegbu expressed concern over the increasing reports of musicians being harassed, detained, and unfairly labeled as criminals solely due to their unconventional dress styles or hairstyles. “Our association has received numerous complaints of such unjust actions, and we have had to step in multiple times to secure the release of innocent musicians wrongfully detained by the police,” he noted.
He warned that if these practices continue, PMAN might be forced to pursue legal action to protect its members and the wider entertainment community from what he described as “unlawful and discriminatory practices.” The PMAN Governor stressed that such actions not only violate individual rights but also risk damaging the reputation of the Nigerian Police Force.
In the letter, Iroegbu highlighted the negative impact these incidents have on the morale and safety of musicians in Plateau State. “It is deeply troubling that in a time when freedom of expression and creativity should be encouraged, our members are facing unnecessary harassment,” he said. He urged the police to focus on their core responsibility of maintaining law and order, rather than profiling individuals based on their appearance.
Iroegbu also called on police officers and security personnel to maintain the integrity of their profession by upholding fairness and justice, and avoiding actions that could erode public trust in law enforcement.
Beyond addressing the police, Comrade Iroegbu advised musicians in Plateau State to prioritize their safety by always carrying their official PMAN ID cards and remaining vigilant. He encouraged them to be security-conscious, especially given the recent incidents involving law enforcement.
“The entertainment industry is a crucial part of Plateau State’s cultural and economic life. It is vital that our members feel safe and respected as they contribute to the vibrancy and growth of our community,” Iroegbu concluded.
The Plateau State chapter of PMAN remains committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of its members and is prepared to take further action to ensure that musicians can perform and express themselves freely, without fear of harassment or intimidation.
