Kano Hisbah arrests 25 for eating in public during Ramadan

The Kano State Hisbah Board has arrested 20 Muslims for eating and drinking in public during the ongoing Ramadan fast, alongside five individuals selling food during fasting hours.

The arrests were made as part of efforts to enforce adherence to Ramadan fasting, which requires Muslims to abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset for 29 or 30 days. The fasting period is expected to conclude on Sunday, March 30, 2025.

Speaking on the arrests, Hisbah Deputy Commander, Mujahid Aminudeen, said the operation was necessary to uphold the sanctity of the holy month.

“It’s 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.

He confirmed that all 25 suspects have been charged in a Sharia court and will face appropriate punishment.

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Aminudeen clarified that Hisbah’s enforcement applies strictly to Muslims, saying, “It is important to note that we don’t concern ourselves with non-Muslims.”

He added that the crackdown will continue throughout Ramadan, with the board responding swiftly to tip-offs from residents who report those violating the fast.

“We do get calls from people who are enraged after seeing people eating in public, and we act fast by going to the area to make arrests,” he explained.

Beyond Ramadan violations, Hisbah also arrested individuals with “inappropriate haircuts,” those wearing shorts above the knee, and tricycle drivers mixing male and female passengers.

Last year, some offenders were released after promising to observe the fast, while others were handed over to their guardians for monitoring. However, Aminudeen warned that this year’s violators will not be spared and will face legal action.

The start of Ramadan in Nigeria was officially declared by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, following the sighting of the crescent moon on Friday, February 28.

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