Niger State Sermon Policy: CAN, Clerics, and Lawyers React to Governor Bago’s Preaching Regulation
Story: written by Okafor joseph October 2,2025
A new directive by Governor Umar Bago of Niger State, requiring clerics to submit their sermons for review and obtain licenses within two months, has triggered intense debate among religious leaders, legal experts, and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
During a TVC interview, Governor Bago announced that anyone attending Friday sermons must bring their scriptures for assessment. While some view the policy as a step toward promoting peace and unity, critics argue it poses a threat to freedom of religion.
Not a New Law but a Revival – Niger DG
Umar Farooq, Director General of the Niger State Religious Affairs, clarified that the policy is not new but a revival of the 1985 preaching law. Speaking with DAILY POST, Farooq explained that the aim is to curb inciting messages and maintain peace.
According to him, “Preaching has not been banned. The governor only emphasized that clerics should be careful with their words, avoiding hate speech, insults, or violence. The goal is to sanitize the sector and ensure harmony.”
He also noted that licensing preachers will help the government build accurate data, train clerics, and issue certificates to improve their capacity. Violators, he warned, will be held accountable through their sects or associations.
CAN Clarifies: Christians Not Affected Yet
Daniel Atori, spokesperson for Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, Chairman of CAN in Niger State, stated that the directive currently applies only to Islamic clerics under the Da’awa registration.
“At first, many thought pastors and imams were included. But after review, it became clear that the law targets Islamic clerics accused of delivering inciting sermons,” Atori said. He added that CAN does not oppose government regulation against dangerous preaching but confirmed that, for now, Christian pastors are exempt.
Clerics Warn Against Extremism and Rivalries
Islamic cleric Jabeer Mukthar Salisu, speaking from Kano, attributed the government’s action to rising sectarian rivalries and extremist preaching. He warned that some clerics exploit followers by inciting violence, stressing that such influence must be checked.
“Religion is one area where anyone can declare themselves a cleric without training. Regulation is necessary, but guidelines must be clear to avoid political manipulation,” he cautioned, adding that future governments could misuse the law to silence dissent.
Lawyers Back Governor’s Authority
Legal expert Barrister Usman Yau defended the policy, saying Governor Bago is acting within constitutional powers since the preaching law already exists as an edict from military-era governance.
“Edicts were legitimate state laws before democracy and many remain in force. The constitution allows governors to reinforce such laws to maintain peace and order,” he explained.
