The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, has publicly criticised a proposed Hisbah Directorates Bill passed by the Niger State House of Assembly, warning that its assent could deepen religious divisions and undermine unity in the mixed-faith state.
The association made its position known on Sunday, February 16, 2026, in a statement issued by its Chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, who is also the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese. Yohanna described the bill — sponsored by Hon. Mohammed Abubakar, member representing Chanchaga Constituency — as “controversial” and cautioned Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago against assenting to it. He said the proposed law, which seeks to establish a Hisbah enforcement body in the state, could “create division amongst the people you govern.”
In his statement, the CAN chairman questioned the rationale behind the Hisbah proposal in a state with a diverse religious population. He asked: “Why Hisbah law in Niger? What is the aim? Of what benefit is it to our people economically and socially? Do they (lawmakers) realize that Christians will not be subjected to Hisbah law?” and urged lawmakers to “drop the Bill except their aim is to incite and or anger a major group of people.”
Yohanna also argued that existing security agencies such as the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and vigilante groups already have the mandate to maintain law and order. He warned that if enacted, the Hisbah law could be perceived as discriminatory, marginalise Christians and “infringe on the constitutional rights of non-Muslims.” He called on well-meaning residents of all faiths to oppose the bill in the interest of peace and unity in Niger State.