Share
Olugbemi. Adeyinka Ogunleye
1 month ago
Overview
Sermon censorship: CCYF urges government to focus on poverty, education , others
The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has criticised the Niger state government for introducing a policy requiring preachers to submit sermons for approval before delivery.
In a statement signed by its convener, James Paul Adama, and made available to journalists in Abuja, the group described the law as “ill-thought, discriminatory and oppressive.”
Governor Umar Bago’s administration recently unveiled the measure, insisting that all religious preachers must obtain approval for their messages before addressing congregations.
But the CCYF said the policy amounts to censorship and a gross violation of fundamental rights to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, enshrined in Nigeria’s Constitution.
The group also pointed to international human rights treaties — including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights — which prohibit restrictions on religious practice.
“Niger State is already battling widespread insecurity and crushing poverty. Over 64 percent of its population lives below the poverty line, with literacy at just 38 percent. Instead of stifling religion, the government should prioritise development,” the forum said.
Basic infrastructure such as electricity, clean water, healthcare and education remain out of reach for most residents, the statement noted.
The CCYF urged Governor Bago to withdraw the law immediately and focus on tackling poverty, unemployment and insecurity, warning that repressive policies risk fuelling more tension.
“We stand for religious sanity and denounce inflammatory preaching,” the forum added, “but this policy is retrogressive and must be jettisoned in the interest of peace and justice.”
Credit: Blueprint
