Niger State Governor Umar Bago has justified the controversial law mandating preachers to submit sermons for vetting and obtain licences before preaching publicly.
Speaking on TVC’s Politics on Sunday, Bago said the policy is not a ban on evangelism but a security measure to curb inciting or extremist messages.
“Even in Saudi Arabia, it’s done like that. You can’t use religion to preach against peace or government and expect it to go unchecked,” he said.
The governor emphasized that the process will involve collaboration with DSS, Police, NSCDC, and the military, and all preachers must comply.
Earlier, the State Religious Affairs DG, Umar Farooq, said preachers have two months to undergo screening and certification before receiving official preaching licences.
