Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, has said clerics in the state will now be required to submit their sermons for vetting before delivering them to their congregations.
Bago made the declaration on Sunday during an interview with TVC, where he addressed concerns surrounding the controversial preaching regulation law.
“I didn’t ban evangelism… For everyone going to sermon on Friday, he should bring his scriptures for review, and it’s normal. Even in Saudi Arabia, this is done,” the governor said.
He explained that the move was aimed at preventing hate speech, anti-government messages, and indoctrination.
“We cannot say because you have been given the opportunity to be a cleric, you will go out and preach the gospel that is anti-people, anti-government, and you think it’s normal,” he noted.
When asked if the move was out of fear of indoctrination, Bago confirmed: “We want to be able to see what they are preaching, hear what they are saying. We are working together with security agencies; the DSS, Police, NSCDC, and the military.”
The development, which first became public earlier this month, has sparked widespread debate.
Earlier, the Director General of Niger State Religious Affairs, Umar Farooq, announced that preachers must obtain government licences within two months if they intend to continue their activities.
“It is true, the State Government has banned preaching. Any preacher who wants to preach must secure a licence between now and the next two months,” Farooq stated.
The new policy has stirred mixed reactions among residents, with critics describing it as an infringement on religious freedom, while government officials insist it is necessary for security and public order.
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