- Kano’s Islamic police (Hisbah) arrested 20 Muslims for eating publicly and five for selling food.
- The arrests took place at the start of Ramadan, during which fasting is mandatory from dawn to dusk.
- Hisbah deputy commander Mujahid Aminudeen stated that only Muslims were targeted.
- Those arrested have been charged in a Sharia court.
- Additional arrests were made for “inappropriate haircuts,” wearing shorts above the knee, and mixed-gender tricycle rides.
In the northern Nigerian state of Kano, the Islamic police known as Hisbah have intensified their enforcement of fasting rules during Ramadan. So far, they have arrested 20 people for eating and drinking in public and five food vendors for selling meals during fasting hours.
Hisbah’s deputy commander, Mujahid Aminudeen, emphasized that their focus is solely on Muslims, stating:
“It’s heart-breaking that in such a holy month meant for fasting, adult Muslims would be seen eating and drinking publicly. We won’t condone that and that’s why we went out to make arrests.”
The arrests will continue throughout the holy month, which began on Saturday, March 9.
Sharia Law and Legal Consequences
Those caught violating fasting rules were promptly charged in a Sharia court. Unlike last year—when offenders were released after promising to fast—this time, they will face legal consequences.
Hisbah officers also act on tip-offs from concerned citizens who report individuals seen eating publicly.
Additional Arrests for Moral Violations
Apart from enforcing fasting laws, Hisbah has also arrested individuals for:
- “Inappropriate” haircuts
- Wearing shorts above the knee
- Tricycle drivers carrying both male and female passengers
Sharia Law in Northern Nigeria
Sharia law was introduced in 12 northern Nigerian states over two decades ago. It functions alongside secular law but applies only to Muslims, while Christian minorities in the region are not subject to its rulings.
Ramadan and Its Significance
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, commemorating the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, requiring Muslims to fast from dawn to dusk.
This year, Ramadan is expected to end on Sunday, March 30.
