The Boys Brigade Nigeria in Niger State Council has opposed the controversial Hisbah Bill recently passed by the Niger State House of Assembly , describing the legislation as a threat to peace and stability in the state.
In a 12-point communiqué signed by its State Secretary Organising, Mr. Samson Japhet Pada, the council aligned with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State Chapter, which had earlier condemned the bill and urged Governor not to sign it into law.
The Boys Brigade said Niger State, grappling with security and economic challenges, requires legislation that addresses insecurity and drives development rather than what it described as a divisive religious enforcement framework.
It warned that assenting to the bill could worsen the state’s fragile economy, drawing parallels with the 2001 Shari’a law which, it claimed, led to business exits and slowed development.
The group further alleged that provisions in the bill relating to the composition of the Hisbah Board could exclude non-Muslims, raising concerns about discrimination and infringement on constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion under Section 38(1) of the 1999 Constitution.
According to the communiqué, certain clauses outlining the board’s duties and functions may conflict with the rights of non-Muslims, particularly Christians, in a state known for interfaith coexistence.
Beyond constitutional concerns, the council urged lawmakers to prioritise legislation addressing poverty, out-of-school children and the Almajiri phenomenon, especially in Chanchaga Local Government Area.
It called on Christians to remain vigilant ahead of future elections, participate actively in politics and vote against candidates whose actions, it said, could destabilise the state.
The Boys Brigade maintained that while moral discipline is necessary, religious institutions, not a state-backed Hisbah structure, should be responsible for guiding their adherents.
