Our laws affect only Muslims, not Christians – Sokoto Hisbah denies interfering in Christian worship
Sokoto Hisbah Board Denies Reports of Restrictions on Christian Worship
The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has refuted claims suggesting that it has imposed restrictions on Christian worship and religious activities within the state. The board’s denial follows a wave of allegations circulating on social media regarding new rules that purportedly affect Christian worship services and the organization of religious gatherings.
Dr. Usman Jatau, Commandant of the Hisbah Board, labeled the reports as false and misleading, cautioning that such misinformation could incite religious tension in Sokoto State. In a statement issued on Saturday, Jatau emphasized that the allegations do not accurately represent the board’s responsibilities or activities.
The controversy erupted in response to assertions that the Hisbah Board was interfering with Christian worship practices. Among these claims was the assertion that churches would no longer be permitted to hold mixed-gender gatherings and that male and female congregants would be required to have separate services. Additionally, some reports suggested that pastors would not be allowed to sit with their spouses during church services.
Further allegations claimed that these purported restrictions were part of a broader agenda to Islamize Nigeria, beginning in Sokoto and expanding across the nation. However, Jatau firmly denied these claims, stating, “The law establishing the Sokoto State Hisbah Board applies only to Muslims.”
He clarified that the board lacks the legal authority to regulate the worship practices of Christians or any other religious groups. “The board does not dictate how Christians organize their worship or manage inter-gender interactions during religious activities,” Jatau added.
The Commandant warned that linking the alleged restrictions to the Hisbah Board was an erroneous interpretation that could jeopardize the peaceful coexistence of religious communities in the region.
“Our response aims to correct factual inaccuracies and clarify that these claims are unfounded,” he said. Jatau also cautioned against associating the Hisbah Board with political narratives, particularly those suggesting an intention to Islamize Nigeria.
“The blogger should focus on political discourse without implicating the Sokoto State Hisbah Board in his claims,” Jatau stated.
The Hisbah Board urged the public to disregard the unfounded allegations and to refrain from spreading unverified information that could foster distrust between religious groups. The board called on residents to promote peace, unity, and mutual respect among the diverse faith communities in Sokoto State.
