Why clerics in Niger must get license, submit sermons before preaching – Gov. Bago | READ DETAILS
Clerics in Niger state have been mandated by the state government to submit their sermons for vetting before preaching to the public.
Speaking on the new policy, Governor Umar Bago who appeared on TVC’s Program on Sunday, clarified that his government did not ban evangelism, rather it adopted a measure to ensure that clerics do not preach anti-people or anti-government sermons.
The governor added that security agencies like; Department of State Services (DSS), the Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the military, will collaborate with the state to enforce the policy.
In his words;
“I didn’t ban evangelism… 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.”
“It’s in that direction. 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”.
In addition to sermon approvals, the state is also introducing a licensing system for preachers. Earlier this month, Umar Farooq, head of Niger State Religious Affairs, said clerics must obtain licenses within two months.
“It is true, the state government has banned preaching. Any preacher who wants to preach must secure a license between now and the next two months.
“All they need to do is to visit our office, get, and fill out the form. After which, they will have to face a panel that will screen them before they can start preaching,” Farooq said.
