The northern Nigerian state of Kano has seen a series of arrests conducted by the Islamic police, also known as Hisbah, targeting Muslims who were observed eating and drinking publicly at the start of Ramadan. This holy month, which began on Saturday, requires Muslims to fast from dawn until dusk as part of their religious duties.
Mujahid Aminudeen, the deputy commander of Hisbah, disclosed that 20 individuals were arrested for not fasting and five others were apprehended for selling food. These enforcement activities will persist throughout the month, which is expected to conclude on Sunday, March 30. Aminudeen emphasized the importance of respecting Ramadan, noting that Hisbah does not interfere with non-Muslims.
“It is heartbreaking 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,” Aminudeen stated. Those apprehended have been charged in a Sharia court, where they will face appropriate punishments.
The Hisbah officials are vigilant, often receiving tips from the public about individuals eating in public places. These prompt the authorities to swiftly act on such reports. Besides arresting those not fasting, the Islamic police also detained individuals with “inappropriate haircuts,” people wearing shorts above the knee, and tricycle drivers who mixed male and female passengers.
The introduction of Sharia, or Islamic law, in 12 northern Nigerian states with a majority Muslim population dates back over two decades. It operates alongside secular law and does not apply to the Christian minorities living in these states.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, holds immense significance in Islam. It was during this month that the first verses of the Quran, Islam’s holy book, were revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, forming the foundation of how Muslims are expected to live their lives. The fast is observed during daylight hours, with the month typically lasting 29 or 30 days.
The enforcement of Ramadan’s observance by Hisbah underscores the importance of maintaining religious discipline and respect for Islamic traditions in Kano. The ongoing operations and arrests serve as a reminder of the deep-rooted cultural and religious practices that shape the lives of many in northern Nigeria.
