Our laws affect only Muslims, not Christians – Sokoto Hisbah denies interfering in Christian worship

The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has refuted allegations that it has imposed restrictions on Christian worship and religious activities in the region. The claims emerged after social media posts suggested the board had introduced new rules governing Christian worship services and the organization of religious gatherings. Dr Usman Jatau, the board's commandant, denounced the reports as false and potentially divisive, emphasizing that they do not reflect the Hisbah Board's duties.

The controversy stemmed from claims that the board was interfering with Christian worship, including limiting gender-integrated worship and separating male and female services for Christians. Furthermore, it was alleged that pastors could not sit with their wives during services, and that these restrictions were part of a broader Islamicization plan for Nigeria.

However, Jatau clarified that the law establishing the Sokoto State Hisbah Board only applies to Muslims and that it has no authority over Christian practices. He stressed that the board's legal mandate is limited to Muslims and that the allegations are distortions of facts. The board cautioned against linking the Hisbah Board to political agendas and urged the public to disregard unverified information that could foster tension between religious communities. It also called for peace, unity, and respect among different faith groups in Sokoto State.