Hisbah Law: Joint Islamic Organizations in Niger State Reiterate Commitment to Peaceful Coexistence and Address CAN’s Concerns
By Yahaya Zakka.
The Joint Islamic Organizations in Niger State have dismissed claims by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) regarding the Hisbah Law passed by the State Assembly that is awaiting the governor’s signature, Mohammed Umar Bago.
During a joint press briefing in Minna, the groups stated that, while CAN has the right to voice its opinions, their claims are misleading and inaccurate and could increase religious tensions. They highlighted their support for peaceful coexistence in Niger State.
Representing the organizations, Niger State Amir of the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria, Mohammed Lawal Murshid, clarified that the Hisbah Law is not aimed at Christians or non-Muslims.
The groups collectively urged Governor Bago to listen to the will of the majority and endorse the law for full implementation. With around 90 percent Muslims in Niger State, they believe the law will promote moral uprightness and community well-being.
Lawal Murshid also stated that CAN’s assertion that Niger State is not predominantly Muslim is incorrect, citing the state’s Islamic history and the fact that 25 out of 27 House of Assembly members are Muslims.
He rejected CAN’s claim that Shari’a-related institutions or faith-based moral frameworks hinder progress, attributing socio-economic difficulties instead to broader national issues.
He emphasized that the Hisbah Law is a faith-based internal mechanism for the Muslim community and is outside CAN’s jurisdiction.
Additionally, he explained that an invitation was extended to the Niger State chapter of CAN for the public hearing. He clarified that the law is meant to complement, not replace, statutory security agencies, by offering community moral guidance and mediation among Muslims.
The organizations also dismissed concerns that the Hisbah Law would result in the persecution or harassment of Christians, asserting that such claims are baseless. The law includes no provisions that allow Hisbah to interfere with the religious freedoms, businesses, or personal liberties of non-Muslims.
Expressing concern over recent political campaigns seeking to manipulate religious sentiments for electoral gain, the groups noted that the Muslim community has responded peacefully and continues to enjoy fair representation in government, demonstrating its commitment to coexistence, fairness, and shared development.
They called on all religious leaders and organizations to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and to promote dialogue, mutual respect, and responsible communication to maintain peace and unity in Niger State.
Amir of Niger State MSSN, Mohammed Lawal Murshid, reaffirmed the joint Islamic organizations’ dedication to peaceful coexistence, constitutional order, and interfaith harmony, urging citizens to prioritize unity and progress over divisive narratives.
The statement, titled “Hisbah Law: Joint Islamic Organizations in Niger State Address CAN’s Concerns and Reaffirm Peaceful Coexistence,” was signed by the MSSN, Imam Forum of Niger State, Council of Muslim Societies (CMS), FOMWAN, JIBWIS Kaduna, Tijjaniyya Groups, and Salafiya Group.
