The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), Niger State chapter, has aligned with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in rejecting the proposed Hisbah Bill currently before the Niger State House of Assembly, warning that the legislation could threaten the state’s longstanding religious harmony.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its State Chairman, Rev. Daniel Tsado, the council described the bill as controversial and cautioned against any policy that could disrupt peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in the state.
Rev. Tsado, who also serves as Vicar of Gbaiko Anglican Church in Bosso Local Government Area, said Niger State has enjoyed decades of interfaith stability and mutual respect. He warned that introducing the Hisbah Bill at this time could generate unnecessary tension and division among residents.
“We join other well-meaning Nigerlites in appealing to the Farmer Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, not to allow the peaceful coexistence among Christians and Muslims to be distorted by religious extremism,” the statement read.
The CCN expressed full support for CAN’s opposition to the proposed legislation, arguing that its provisions could adversely affect freedom of business and further strain the state’s economy.
According to the council, churches across the state were taken aback by the bill, particularly under the leadership of Governor Bago, who has previously demonstrated gestures of unity, including visits to churches across Niger State.
“Mr Governor, please do not derail from the path of unity and peaceful coexistence,” the council urged.
The Christian body also questioned the timing of the bill’s introduction, noting that it comes amid what it described as a robust and cordial relationship between the state’s dominant faith communities.
“As a bloc, we wonder why such a bill is being introduced at a time when there is strong interfaith harmony. We must avoid anything that will sow seeds of discord among us,” the statement added.
The proposed Hisbah Bill continues to generate debate in the state, with religious and civic groups closely monitoring developments at the House of Assembly.
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