Kaduna state Deputy governor meet with CAN over controversial preaching Bill

Deputy Governor of Kaduna state, Barnabas
Bala, today met with the leaders of Kaduna
State CAN, led by the chairman George Dodo,
Catholic Bishop of Zaria to discuss the
controversial Religious Regulation Bill which the
state governor Nasir El Rufai has sent to the
state House of Assembly for debate and
passage.


According to the Deputy Governor, the Religious
Preaching Law is proposed to curb extremism &
protect safe practice of faith. He said this is
the first time the preaching bill is being
subjected to democratic scrutiny since it was
enacted in 1984.


The 1984 and 1987 versions of the edict were
enacted following outbreaks of religious
violence which Kaduna wishes to confine to the
past. “There is nothing in the Bill that suggests
any effort to abolish, stop or derogate on the
freedom of religion and religious beliefs.


 It merely seeks to ensure that religious preaching
and activities in the State are conducted in
ways that do not threaten public order, public
safety, and to protect the rights and freedom of
other persons.”he said
Leader of the CAN group, Bishop Dodo said
CAN welcomeD the consultations, and would be
making a comprehensive submission to the
House of Assembly and the Executive.


 The Deputy Governor said the consultations
continue & that the legislative process of public
hearings also offer a platform for all views.