Islamic police in Kano State have taken nine individuals into custody for allegedly eating in public during fasting hours on the opening day of Ramadan, underscoring the enforcement of Sharia regulations in the state despite Nigeria’s secular constitution.
The Kano State Hisbah Corps said its operatives arrested the suspects on Wednesday after they were reportedly seen eating at midday, an act considered a direct breach of the Islamic fast observed from dawn until sunset.
Kano, one of the most populous states in northern Nigeria, operates a dual legal structure in which Islamic Sharia law runs alongside the country’s conventional legal system.
During the Ramadan period, Hisbah officials regularly patrol markets, restaurants and public areas to ensure that Muslims comply with fasting obligations.
Although some eateries remain open in neighbourhoods largely populated by Christians and other non-Muslims, practising Muslims are prohibited from eating, drinking or engaging in any activity that invalidates the fast between sunrise and sunset. Fasting in Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and is regarded as a core religious obligation.
Deputy Commander Mujahid Aminudeen told reporters that those detained comprised seven men and two women.
“We have arrested them and they are currently with us. We will teach them the importance of fasting, how to pray, how to read the Qur’an, and how to be good Muslims,” Aminudeen said.
Authorities have not yet indicated when the detainees will regain their freedom, prompting renewed debate over the reach and limits of religious policing in northern Nigeria.
(SAHARA REPORTERS)
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