Africa-Press – Nigeria. The Niger State Concerned Christian Advocates have have kicked against the proposed Hisbah Commission Bill currently before the Niger State House of Assembly, warning that its passage could undermine constitutional principles and social harmony in the state.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued by the Chairman, Amb. Marshal Okoro, after the group’s emergency stakeholders’ meeting held in Minna on February 17, 2026.
The statement, signed by the Chairman, Amb. Marsha, said members unanimously resolved to oppose the bill in its entirety.
“We unequivocally reject the proposed Hisbah Commission Bill and call on the Niger State Government to reconsider this legislation in the broader interest of constitutional integrity and peaceful coexistence,” Okoro stated.
While acknowledging the government’s responsibility to promote security, public order and moral values, the group argued that institutionalising a religious enforcement commission in a plural and multi-faith society raises serious concerns.
“The creation of a state-backed religious enforcement body within a diverse state like Niger may be interpreted as conferring institutional preference on a particular faith,” the communiqué noted.
The advocates cited Sections 10 and 38(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), emphasizing that government must not adopt any religion as a state religion and must guarantee citizens’ freedom of thought, conscience and religion.
“Any structure that appears to enforce religious norms through state mechanisms risks undermining these constitutional safeguards,” the group stated.
On the social implications, the organization warned that the proposed commission could heighten religious sensitivities and deepen societal divisions.
According to the statement, “Niger State has enjoyed decades of interfaith coexistence, and policies that risk polarizing communities should be carefully reconsidered.”
The group also raised economic concerns, noting that the state faces pressing development challenges.
“At a time when economic revitalization is urgently needed, legislation perceived as exclusionary may discourage investors and weaken business confidence,” Okoro added.
Aligning fully with the position of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Niger State Chapter, the advocates called on members of the State House of Assembly to reconsider the bill while urging Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to withhold assent should the bill be passed.
The communiqué then added, “We remain committed to constitutional democracy, religious freedom and the socio-economic advancement of Niger State. We are open to constructive engagement that promotes unity, justice and peace for all citizens.”
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