Governor Bago Bans Anti-Government Preaching with New Vetting Policy
Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has clarified that the recent directive requiring religious preachers to submit their sermons for review is not a ban on evangelism, but a proactive measure to prevent the spread of divisive or inflammatory messages.
Speaking on TVC’s Politics on Sunday, Bago emphasized that the policy is aimed at promoting responsible preaching and curbing rhetoric that could incite unrest or undermine governance. “We didn’t ban evangelism,” he said. “We simply asked that anyone preaching on Fridays submit their scriptures for review. It’s a standard practice—even in places like Saudi Arabia.”
The sermon review policy comes alongside a new licensing requirement for preachers, announced by Umar Farooq, Director-General of the Niger State Religious Affairs Department. Clerics have been given a two-month window to obtain official authorization before delivering public sermons.
Bago explained that the government’s intention is to monitor religious messaging and ensure it aligns with public interest. “We want to know what they are preaching, hear what they are saying,” he said. “You can’t use the pulpit to spread anti-people or anti-government sentiments and expect it to be acceptable.”
This isn’t the first time Governor Bago has taken controversial steps in the name of public order. In August, he ordered the closure of Badeggi FM over alleged incitement, and earlier in April, directed the arrest and forced haircut of residents with dreadlocks, citing efforts to curb crime and social vices—moves that drew public criticism.
The sermon vetting policy has sparked debate over religious freedom and government oversight, but Bago maintains it is a necessary tool to protect societal harmony and prevent misuse of religious platforms.
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