Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, has announced that preachers in the state will be required to submit their sermons for approval before addressing their congregations.
The governor made this known on Sunday during an interview on TVC, where he clarified certain aspects of a new law seeking to regulate preaching in the state.
“I didn’t ban evangelism,” Bago explained. “For everyone going to sermon on Friday, he should bring his scriptures for review, and it’s normal.
Even in Saudi Arabia, this is done. We cannot say because you have been given the opportunity to be a cleric, you will go out and preach the gospel that is anti-people, anti-government and you think it’s normal.”
When asked whether the move was aimed at preventing indoctrination, the governor admitted it was part of the reason. “We want to be able to see what they are preaching, hear what they are saying. We are working together with security agencies, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the military,” he said.
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The development has continued to spark controversy since it was first made public earlier this month. Director General of the Niger State Religious Affairs Department, Umar Farooq, had earlier disclosed that anyone intending to preach in the state must obtain a licence.
According to him, preachers have been given two months to comply. “It is true, the state government has banned preaching. Any preacher who wants to preach must secure a licence between now and the next two months,” he stated.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
