The Niger State Concerned Christian Advocates, following its emergency stakeholders’ meeting held in Minna yesterday 17th Feb 2026, hereby issues this formal communiqué to express its unequivocal rejection of the proposed Hisbah Commission Bill currently under consideration in Niger State.
Firm Opposition to the Proposed Hisbah Commission
After careful deliberation, the organization strongly condemns the proposed establishment of a state-backed Hisbah Commission under the administration of Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago. While acknowledging the government’s responsibility to promote security, public order, and moral values, we maintain that the creation of a religious enforcement body within a pluralistic state raises serious constitutional, social, and economic concerns.
We respectfully urge His Excellency, the Governor, to withhold assent to the bill should it be passed by the State House of Assembly, in order to safeguard constitutional integrity and preserve social harmony.
Alignment with CAN
The Niger State Concerned Christian Advocates align fully with the position of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State Chapter, in rejecting the proposed legislation on constitutional and equity grounds.
Constitutional Considerations
The proposed Hisbah Commission raises significant constitutional issues:
1. Section 10 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) Section 10 expressly prohibits any government—federal or state—from adopting any religion as a state religion. The establishment of a state-sponsored religious enforcement body may reasonably be perceived as institutional preference for a particular faith in the affairs of governance.
2. Section 38(1) of the Constitution Section 38(1) guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. The enforcement of religious norms through state structures risks undermining these fundamental freedoms, particularly for citizens of other faiths.
Social and Political Implications
Niger State is a multi-religious and diverse society. The introduction of a religious enforcement commission may:
– Heighten religious sensitivities and tensions;
– Deepen societal divisions;
– Reinforce perceptions of marginalisation among minority faith communities;
– Undermine long-standing interfaith coexistence and unity within the state.
Economic Implications
Niger State has in recent years experienced:
– Business closures;
– Relocation of investors and entrepreneurs;
– Economic challenges affecting growth and development.
The proposed legislation may further discourage investment, weaken business confidence, and project the state as religiously exclusionary at a time when economic revitalization is urgently needed.
Alternative Approaches
Instead of a Hisbah Commission, we advocate for inclusive approaches to promoting moral values and security that engage all communities and respect constitutional rights.
Call to Action
Accordingly, we call upon:
– The Niger State House of Assembly to reconsider the bill in the broader interest of constitutional compliance and social cohesion;
– The Executive Arm of Government to prioritize policies that unite rather than divide the people of Niger State;
– All stakeholders to promote peace, justice, and inclusive development.
Conclusion
The Niger State Concerned Christian Advocates reaffirm their commitment to constitutional democracy, religious freedom, peaceful coexistence, and the socio-economic advancement of Niger State. We remain open to constructive dialogue that promotes unity and protects the fundamental rights of all citizens.
Signed:
Amb. Marshal Okoro.
Chairman
Niger State Concerned Christian Advocates
Minna, Niger State.