16/02/2026
REJOINDER TO THE POSITION OF CAN ON THE PROPOSED NIGER HISBAH BILL
The recent statement credited to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) urging His Excellency, Umar Mohammed Bago, to reject the proposed Niger Hisbah Bill has generated considerable public discourse.
While we acknowledge and respect CAN’s right to express concerns, it is important to provide clarification, promote understanding, and prevent unnecessary apprehension among residents of Chanchaga Local Government Area and Niger State at large.
First, the proposed Hisbah Directorate, as sponsored by Mohammed Abubakar, is primarily intended to guide and regulate moral conduct among willing adherents of the Islamic faith. Hisbah, by definition and historical practice, functions as a moral advisory and community-based compliance body within Muslim communities.
It is not designed to replace constitutional security agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force or the Civil Defence Corps.
Constitutional Safeguards
Nigeria remains a secular state under the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees:
Freedom of religion
Freedom of association
Protection from discrimination
No state legislation can override these constitutional protections.
Therefore, the Hisbah Bill, if passed, cannot lawfully impose religious obligations on non-Muslims.
Any provision inconsistent with constitutional rights would be subject to judicial review.
Addressing Fears of Discrimination
The claim that the bill is discriminatory presupposes that it will apply coercively to non-Muslims.
However: Hisbah operations traditionally focus on Muslims who voluntarily submit to Islamic moral codes.
Non-Muslims retain full constitutional rights to practice their faith and live according to their beliefs.
Enforcement of criminal law remains exclusively within the mandate of recognized security agencies.
It is important to distinguish between moral regulation within a faith community and state-imposed religious compulsion.
The latter is unconstitutional and cannot stand.
Impact on Non-Muslims in Chanchaga LGA
For constituents in Chanchaga Local Government, the practical implications are as follows:
No compulsion in worship or religious practice
Non-Muslims will not be required to observe Islamic codes of conduct.
No interference in churches or Christian activities
Religious gatherings, evangelism, and church administration remain protected.
Commercial and social activities remain lawful
Businesses owned by non-Muslims will continue to operate under existing civil laws.
Security remains under conventional agencies
The Police and other federal agencies retain authority over public order.
The Need for Dialogue, Not Division
Niger State has historically maintained peaceful coexistence among diverse religious communities. It is essential that public discourse avoids inflammatory interpretations that may create unnecessary tension.
Constructive engagement between lawmakers, religious leaders, and civil society is the appropriate pathway. Rather than outright rejection, stakeholders may recommend clarifications, safeguards, and oversight mechanisms to ensure inclusivity and constitutional compliance.
Signed:
Usman Audi
Media Aid To Hon Ustaz Member Representing Chanchaga Constituency.
