The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State Chapter, strongly opposes the proposed Hisbah Directorates Bill currently under consideration by the Niger State Government, warning that the legislation could heighten religious tension and marginalize non-Muslim residents.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the association calls on Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to withhold assent to the bill if it is passed by the State House of Assembly. CAN expresses concern that the proposed law may undermine religious harmony in a state widely regarded as religiously diverse.
In a statement signed by the State Chairman of CAN, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna—who also serves as the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese—the association describes the bill as controversial and potentially divisive. CAN argues that the establishment of a Hisbah Directorate in Niger State raises serious constitutional and social questions that require broader consultation.
As reported by Mediaplusng.com, the bill is sponsored by Hon. Mohammed Abubakar, representing Chanchaga Constituency in the Niger State House of Assembly. The proposed legislation seeks to create a Hisbah Directorate, an institution typically associated with moral and religious compliance in some northern states.
Addressing Governor Bago directly, CAN urges caution, stating that the enactment of the law could create division among the people of the state. The association emphasizes the need to protect peace, unity, and coexistence, particularly in a pluralistic society where citizens practice different faiths.
The group also calls on the Speaker and members of the Niger State House of Assembly to reconsider the bill. In its coverage, Mediaplusng.com notes that CAN warns that the passage of the legislation may generate unnecessary tension and disrupt social cohesion across communities.
Most Rev. Yohanna questions the rationale behind the proposed law, asking what economic or social value it would bring to the people of Niger State. He raises concerns about whether lawmakers fully consider the implications for Christians and other non-Muslims who, according to him, may not be subject to the provisions of a Hisbah framework.
CAN further disputes claims by the Chairman of the Joint House Committees on Religious Affairs and Judiciary and Legal Matters, Hon. Isah Muhammad Etsugaie, that key stakeholders—including CAN—are consulted during a public hearing on the bill. The association states that it neither receives an invitation nor formal notification to participate in any such consultation.
The association describes the alleged exclusion as troubling, particularly on a matter it considers sensitive and capable of affecting interfaith relations. CAN maintains that transparent engagement with all religious groups remains essential when deliberating on legislation with potential religious implications.
Highlighting constitutional concerns, CAN argues that Nigeria operates under a secular legal framework where the Constitution remains supreme. The association cautions that the enforcement of a Hisbah law could be interpreted as infringing on the rights of non-Muslims and potentially contradict constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion.
CAN also notes that security and law enforcement responsibilities are already handled by constitutionally recognized institutions such as the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. It questions the necessity of establishing an additional religious-based enforcement structure.
The association calls on residents of Niger State—regardless of religious affiliation, ethnicity, or political alignment—to engage constructively and advocate for policies that promote unity and peaceful coexistence. CAN reiterates that sustainable governance must prioritize inclusivity, dialogue, and constitutional compliance.
As debate over the proposed Hisbah Directorates Bill continues, the position of CAN underscores broader national conversations about religious freedom, constitutional order, and social harmony within Nigeria’s multi-faith society.
