The Kano Hisbah Board has launched an operation to enforce fasting regulations, leading to the arrest of 25 individuals accused of eating, drinking, or selling food in public during fasting hours.
Ramadan, a sacred month in Islam, mandates fasting from dawn to dusk as one of its five pillars. However, Islamic law grants exemptions to specific groups, including the sick, pregnant women, travelers, breastfeeding mothers, menstruating women, and elderly individuals who are physically incapable of fasting.
Those excused are expected to compensate for missed fasts later.
Speaking to the BBC, Mujahideen Abubakar, the board’s deputy commander general of operations, confirmed the arrests, stating that the crackdown, which commenced on the 1st of March, 2025, would persist throughout the month.
“We do not interfere with non-Muslims, but any form of disrespect towards Ramadan will not be tolerated,” Abubakar emphasized.
He expressed disappointment over the violation of fasting rules by adult Muslims, labeling public consumption of food and drinks as unacceptable. According to him, 20 individuals were detained for not fasting, while five were arrested for selling food during the restricted hours.
“People call us, expressing outrage when they see others eating in public. We respond swiftly by making arrests,” he added.
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All 25 detainees have reportedly been charged in a Sharia court, where they will face appropriate consequences.
Kano Hisbah, the agency responsible for upholding Islamic morality in the state, is no stranger to controversial enforcement measures.
Over the years, it has gained notoriety for destroying alcoholic beverages, arresting unmarried men and women found together in hotels, and even banning mannequins in boutiques.
As the crackdown continues, the debate over the role of religious policing in Kano remains as intense as ever.