Sokoto Hisbah Denies Claims of Restricting Christian Worship

The Sokoto State Hisbah Board, led by Commandant Dr Usman Abdullahi Jatau, has refuted claims that it imposed restrictions on Christian worship in Sokoto State. These allegations, which circulated on social media, suggested that the Hisbah Board had introduced rules affecting how Christians conduct their worship and organize gatherings.

Jatau described these claims as false and misleading, warning that they could incite religious tension. He clarified that the law establishing the Hisbah Board applies solely to Muslims and that the board lacks the authority to regulate Christian worship practices.

The controversy arose from allegations made by a blogger identified as @radical.okoja.bia, which included claims about prohibiting mixed gatherings in churches and restrictions on pastors sitting with their wives. Jatau urged residents to avoid sharing unverified information that could foster distrust among religious communities and emphasized the importance of peace and mutual respect among different faiths.