Kano Hisbah Arrests Youths for Violating Ramadan Fast and Enforces Sharia Compliance

In Kano State, the Islamic morality police, known as the Hisbah Board, have arrested several young men for allegedly failing to observe the Ramadan fast. The arrests took place on the first day of Ramadan, which commenced on March 1, 2025. The Hisbah operatives, tasked with enforcing Sharia law, confirmed that the individuals were apprehended for not fasting as required during the holy month.

Dr. Mujahideen Abubakar, the Deputy Commander General of the Hisbah Board, addressed the media, reaffirming the agency’s dedication to upholding Islamic principles throughout Ramadan. He emphasized that the arrests were part of broader efforts to ensure compliance with religious obligations during this sacred period.

In addition to the fasting-related arrests, the Hisbah Board also detained approximately 60 individuals for sporting what they deemed “indecent haircuts,” which were said to violate both Islamic teachings and local cultural norms. Furthermore, commercial tricycle (Keke Napep) operators were arrested for allegedly allowing male and female passengers to ride together, a practice the board has vowed to eliminate.

This is not the first time the Hisbah Board has taken such measures. In March 2024, the agency arrested at least 11 Muslims for eating during the Ramadan fast. Hisbah spokesman Lawal Fagge confirmed the arrests to the BBC, revealing that the group included 10 men and one woman. The individuals were released after pledging not to intentionally break their fast again.

Fagge explained that the arrests were made following reports from the public. “We apprehended 11 individuals on Tuesday, including a woman selling groundnuts who was seen eating from her merchandise. The other 10 were men arrested in various parts of the city, particularly near markets where activities are high,” he stated.

The Hisbah Board clarified that non-Muslims are exempt from such enforcement actions unless they are found to be deliberately encouraging Muslims to break their fast. “We do not arrest non-Muslims because fasting is not their obligation. However, they could face consequences if they are caught preparing or selling food to Muslims who are supposed to be fasting,” Fagge added.

The Hisbah Board has pledged to continue its operations throughout Ramadan to ensure adherence to Islamic laws and cultural values in Kano State.

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