The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State Chapter, has raised strong objections to the proposed Hisbah law before the Niger State House of Assembly, warning that the bill could spark widespread controversy and deepen religious divisions if signed into law.
In a statement issued by the State Chairman of CAN, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, the association said the Niger State Hisbah Directorates Bill indicates segregation and discrimination against Christianity.
The bill, sponsored by Hon. Mohammed Abubakar, who represents Chanchaga Constituency in the State Assembly, has generated concern among Christian leaders in the state.
CAN alleged that the proposed legislation would only create division among people of different faiths in Niger State, rather than promote unity and peaceful coexistence.
According to the association, the state is not a single-religion entity and any law perceived to favour one faith over others could trigger avoidable tension.
Bishop Yohanna warned that the Niger State Hisbah Directorates Bill “could create controversies” and therefore should not be assented to by the executive arm of government.
He urged the state government to carefully reconsider the implications of the bill and avoid actions that might polarize residents along religious lines.
The CAN chairman further stated that Niger State is not a single religion state, stressing the need for the government to look beyond religious divides and focus on policies that strengthen unity among citizens.
He maintained that laws capable of fostering segregation would undermine the long-standing coexistence among adherents of different faiths in the state.
While calling on members of the State House of Assembly to prioritise legislation that directly benefits the general population, the association argued that there are already established security agencies with constitutional powers to address social vices.
These, he noted, include the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as well as vigilante groups operating within legal frameworks.
CAN insisted that strengthening existing institutions would be more productive than creating structures that may generate suspicion and controversy.
The association therefore called on the state government to refrain from assenting to the bill, warning that its passage into law could inflame tensions and distract from governance priorities aimed at fostering peace, security and inclusive development across Niger State.
