CCN backs CAN in rejecting proposed Hisbah Bill in Niger
Christian Council of Nigeria Supports Opposition to Hisbah Bill in Niger State
The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), Niger State chapter, has expressed its support for the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in opposing the proposed Hisbah Bill currently under consideration by the Niger State House of Assembly.
In a statement issued by State Chairman Rev. Daniel Tsado, the council characterized the bill as controversial and urged Governor Mohammed Umar Bago to refrain from endorsing any measures that could disrupt the long-standing peaceful coexistence of Christians and Muslims in the state.
Rev. Tsado, who also serves as the Vicar of Gbaiko Anglican Church in Bosso Local Government Area, emphasized that Niger State has maintained decades of religious harmony. He cautioned that the introduction of the Hisbah Bill might incite unnecessary tension among residents.
“We join other concerned citizens in appealing to Governor Bago not to let the peace between Christians and Muslims be threatened by religious extremism,” the statement read. The CCN expressed full support for CAN’s stance, highlighting that the bill could adversely impact business freedoms and exacerbate the economic challenges currently faced by the state.
The council noted that churches in the region had not anticipated such legislation under Governor Bago’s administration, which has previously shown gestures of unity by visiting local churches.
“Mr. Governor, please do not deviate from the path of unity and peaceful coexistence,” the council urged.
Additionally, the Christian body questioned the timing of the bill, remarking that it arises during a period described as one of robust interfaith relations between the two dominant religions in the state.
“As a unified body, we wonder why such a bill is being introduced at a time when strong interfaith harmony exists. We must avoid actions that could sow seeds of discord among us,” the statement concluded.
