Christian Groups Oppose Niger State Plan to Set Up Hisbah Commission

 

Christian Groups Oppose Niger State Plan to Set Up Hisbah Commission

February 19, 2026 – A coalition of Christian organisations in Niger State has strongly opposed Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s proposed plan to establish a Hisbah Commission, warning that the initiative could compromise Nigeria’s secular framework and negatively impact the state’s economic and social cohesion.

The Niger State Concerned Christian Advocates, led by Ambassador Marshal Okoro, issued a statement following an emergency stakeholders’ meeting in Minna. The group said the bill, currently before the State House of Assembly, represents a troubling deviation from Nigeria’s principles of religious pluralism and constitutional democracy.

“After careful deliberation, our coalition strongly condemns the proposed establishment of a state-backed Hisbah Commission under the administration of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago,” the statement read. “While we acknowledge the government’s responsibility to uphold security, public order, and moral standards, the creation of a religious enforcement body within a multi-religious society raises serious constitutional, social, and economic concerns.”

Citing Section 10 of the 1999 Constitution, the Christian advocates argued that the government is constitutionally barred from adopting any religion as a state religion. They warned that the Hisbah bill institutionalises favoritism towards one faith, thereby undermining the rights of other religious communities. They also referenced Section 38(1), which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, noting that enforcing religious norms through state machinery would infringe on the rights of minority faiths.

The coalition aligned itself with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State Chapter, which has similarly expressed opposition to the legislation. According to the group, passing the bill into law could deepen religious divisions, escalate tensions, and reinforce perceptions of marginalisation among Christians and other minority groups in the state.

“Niger State is a multi-religious society with a long history of peaceful coexistence,” the group said. “Introducing a religious enforcement commission risks heightening religious sensitivities and creating divisions in communities that have traditionally lived harmoniously. Such a move could send a negative signal to investors and the business community, potentially discouraging economic activity and slowing the state’s development.”

The coalition stressed that Niger State already faces economic challenges, including business closures and the relocation of investors. They warned that establishing a Hisbah Commission could exacerbate these problems by projecting the state as religiously exclusionary.

“Economic revitalisation requires an inclusive and stable environment,” the group said. “Policies that risk polarising communities could undermine investor confidence and harm the socio-economic growth of Niger State.”

Instead of creating a Hisbah Commission, the Christian advocates recommended inclusive approaches to promoting moral values and security. They encouraged the state government to engage all communities in devising programs that respect constitutional rights while strengthening public safety.

The coalition also called on the State House of Assembly to reconsider the bill and urged the executive branch to focus on policies that promote unity rather than division. “We call on the Niger State House of Assembly to review the bill in the broader interest of constitutional compliance, social cohesion, and economic development. We urge the executive arm of government to prioritise policies that bring the people together and foster peace, justice, and inclusive growth,” the statement added.

Reaffirming their commitment to constitutional democracy and religious freedom, the group emphasised the importance of dialogue among stakeholders to maintain peaceful coexistence. “The Niger State Concerned Christian Advocates remain committed to promoting constitutional democracy, upholding religious liberty, and supporting socio-economic advancement across the state. We are open to constructive engagement that safeguards unity and the fundamental rights of all citizens,” they said.

The debate over the Hisbah Commission highlights ongoing tensions in Nigeria’s federal and state governance between religious advocacy groups, secular principles, and socio-economic considerations. As Niger State prepares to navigate this complex issue, stakeholders continue to emphasise the need for policies that balance moral guidance, security, and the protection of citizens’ constitutional rights.

The Christian coalition’s opposition is likely to intensify public discussion on the matter, particularly as concerns grow about the potential impact on the state’s social fabric and investment climate. Observers say that careful deliberation and broad-based consultation with all religious and community leaders will be critical to ensuring that Niger State’s policies reflect both constitutional mandates and the diverse needs of its population.