CAN rules out legal action against Niger govt over preaching licence

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, has clarified that it will not institute legal action against the state government over the recently introduced licensing process for religious preachers.

The state’s Bureau for Religious Affairs had announced the introduction of a Da’awah Registration Form and Certification Process for preachers, sparking speculation that the government had placed a ban on religious preaching across the state.

However, in a statement on Sunday, CAN’s spokesman, Daniel Atori, explained that the directive was targeted at Da’awah activities and did not affect Christian clerics. He said the association therefore had no reason to seek legal redress.

“The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Niger State chapter, will not sue the State Government because the statement, according to the Bureau of Religious Affairs, does not in any way affect Christians in the state. The said meeting by the Bureau was convened to introduce the Da’awah Registration Form and Certification Process, which is part of ongoing efforts to prevent misunderstandings and curb the spread of misleading preaching across the state,” Atori stated.

He further noted that the Bureau for Religious Affairs does not have the powers to arbitrarily ban clerics, except where there is a violation of established guidelines.

Atori urged religious leaders to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation about the development, adding that dialogue remained the best approach to resolving issues of mutual concern.

The introduction of the licence has stirred debate within Niger State, with some residents expressing concerns over possible restrictions on freedom of worship.