CAN WARNS AGAINST PROPOSED HISBAH LAW IN NORTHERN STATE, CITES POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES

The CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (CAN) has issued a strong warning over a proposed Hisbah law in a northern Nigerian state, cautioning that the legislation could have serious social, legal, and religious implications if enacted.In an official statement, CAN emphasized the need to respect religious freedom and maintain national unity, urging state lawmakers to carefully consider the potential impact on interfaith relations and civil liberties.“Any legislation that imposes religious policing risks creating division and conflict within our communities,” CAN stated. “We call on state authorities to prioritize dialogue and inclusivity over restrictive laws.”The proposed Hisbah law aims to formalize Islamic moral policing in the state. While supporters argue it encourages public morality, critics—including religious organizations and human rights advocates—warn it may undermine constitutional rights and heighten tensions between religious communities.Legal analysts note that the law could raise serious questions regarding constitutional compliance, particularly freedom of religion and equality before the law. The proposal has already sparked debates nationwide among religious leaders, policymakers, and social media users.