The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benue State has expressed opposition to the proposed religious bill of the Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, saying such may divide Nigeria.
Its Chairman, Rev. Akpen Leva, in a statement at the weekend warned that delicate issues such as religion should not be toyed with by anyone no matter how highly placed.
“The proposed bill is not in agreement with the constitution of Nigeria, which provides for freedom of religion, freedom of expression as well as freedom of association,” he stated.
Noting that the religious bill did not favour any religion, CAN, however, noted that “it has more damaging and long term effect on the church”.
He urged El-Rufai not to substitute the existing preaching law of 1984 as amended in 1987, with the planned bill.
Benue CAN also called on the federal government to set up a judicial commission of enquiry to look into the problems of communities affected by the crisis between Fulani herdsmen and farmers which according to them “has continued unabated”.
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