Niger CAN Rejects Hisbah Bill, Urges Governor Not to Assent

The Christian Association of Nigeria (Niger State chapter) has formally rejected the proposed Hisbah Bill, urging Governor Moham Umaru Bago not to assent to it. In a statement signed by the state chairman, Bishop Bulu Dauwa Yohanna, the association described the bill as controversial and capable of deepening religious divisions within the state.

The bill, sponsored by Hon. Moham Abubakar, a member representing Chanchaga Constituency, seeks to establish a Hisbah directorate in Niger State. The association warned that the legislation is perceived as discriminatory against Christians and could heighten religious tensions.

They questioned the necessity and benefits of the proposed law, emphasizing that existing security agencies, including the Nigeria Police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, already have mandates to maintain law and order. The Christian body criticized the legislative process, claiming there was no public consultation or engagement with stakeholders.

They expressed concerns that assenting to the law would infringe upon the constitutional rights of non-Muslims and could lead to persecution, urging the state House of Assembly to reconsider the bill.