The Boys Brigade Nigeria, Niger State Council, has urged the Niger State House of Assembly to focus on insecurity and economic hardship instead of pursuing the controversial Hisbah Bill. The group said the proposed law could deepen division and distract leaders from urgent challenges affecting residents.

In a statement issued after a meeting in Minna, the council backed the earlier stance of the Christian Association of Nigeria, which also opposed the bill. It called on Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago not to approve the legislation, warning that it may disrupt peace and weaken the state’s fragile economy.

The organisation argued that past religious policy experiments harmed business confidence and slowed development. It also expressed concern that parts of the bill, including proposed board membership limited to Muslims, could sideline non-Muslims and raise constitutional questions about religious freedom.

Instead, the group advised lawmakers to tackle poverty, insecurity, and rising school dropout rates, especially in Chanchaga Local Government Area. It encouraged citizens to stay politically engaged and support leaders committed to unity, stability, and inclusive governance.