Pulpit War Erupts As Niger Governor’s Sermon Rules Divide Religious Leaders

Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, has sparked heated debates among religious leaders after announcing that clerics must obtain preaching licences within two months and submit their sermons for official review.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

During a recent interview with TVC, the governor stated: “Everyone going to deliver sermons on Friday should present their scriptures for review.”

The directive has divided opinions across the state. While some commend it as a bold move to promote peace, others view it as a potential violation of freedom of worship.

Defending the policy, the Director-General of Niger State Religious Affairs, Umar Farooq, clarified that it is not a new initiative but rather a revival of an edict enacted in 1985.

“There has been a law in Niger State since 1985. What we are doing now is reviving it to ensure peace and prevent incitement. Nobody has banned preaching; however, clerics must be careful with their words and avoid hate speech or insults,” Farooq explained.

According to him, the state government will:

• Distribute registration forms through religious organisations to build a database of clerics.

• Train preachers and issue certificates upon completion.

• Hold religious sects and associations accountable as guarantors for their preachers.

“When a preacher violates the guidelines, we hold their sect responsible because they serve as guarantors,” Farooq added.

CAN’s Clarification

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, has clarified that the directive currently applies only to Islamic clerics under Da’awa registration, not Christian leaders.

“When the news first came out, many assumed it covered pastors, reverends, and imams. But upon review, it was clear that the directive mainly targets Islamic clerics under Da’awa registration,” CAN’s aide Daniel Atori explained.

He linked the policy to concerns over some sermons allegedly inciting unrest and undermining democracy.

Mixed Reactions From Clerics and Lawyers

Kano-based Islamic cleric, Jabeer Mukthar Salisu, suggested the move may be necessary given the growing influence of extremist preachers and sect rivalries.

“Clerics have followers who take their words seriously. If a preacher is known for inciting violence, the government has a duty to act,” he said, though he warned against the risk of political misuse of the law.

Legal expert, Barrister Usman Yau, backed the governor, insisting the policy is constitutional.

“The edict has existed since military rule and was carried into democracy. The state has the power to enforce laws that ensure peace and order,” Yau noted.

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