By Princess Simon (Bureau Chief North Central, in Minna)
Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), Niger state chapter has declared support for the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in rejecting the controversial Hisbah bill being proposed by the Niger State House of Assembly (NSHA).
The CCN, according to statement signed by the state Chairman, Rev. Daniel Tsado maintained that Niger is a circular state hence no single religion should be given prominence or to lord over others.
"We join other well meaning Nigerlites to appeal to Governor Mohammed Umar Bago to have nothing to do with the bill because it has the tendency of depriving citizens the peaceful coexistence enjoyed by the diverse ethno-religious nationalities in Niger state".
The statement further emphasized that Christians and Muslims have for decades lived together, while some homes have both region being practiced and therefore the governor should ignore the antics of religious bigots who may have forgotten legislative duties for trivialities.
"We support the position of CAN on the controversial Hisbah Bill proposed by the House of Assembly because it has nothing good to offer citizens than to promote enemty and chaos.
"The Bill will distort the long peaceful coexistence not only among the two prominent religions, Christianity and Islam but will also affect the freedom or ease of doing businesses and worsen economic backwardness presently experienced in the state".
The statement further stated that, churches in Niger state least expect such bill from the Governor Bago led administration because he has personally visited churches signifying show of religious tolerance, love and unity amongst all.
"As a bloc, CAN has the full backing of the CCN, it is therefore surprising why such a bill is coming at this time every Nigerlite is enjoying robust relationship between the two main religious bodies. Let's avoid anything that will sow seeds of discord among us". NNL.
