The Hisbah enforcement agency in Kano, Nigeria has initiated arrests against Muslims seen eating in public during Ramadan, highlighting the intersection of religious adherence and local governance through Sharia law.
Ramadan Enforcement: Kano's Crackdown on Public Eating and Sharia Compliance
Ramadan Enforcement: Kano's Crackdown on Public Eating and Sharia Compliance
In Kano State, Nigeria, 25 individuals were arrested for publicly consuming food and drinks during Ramadan, as Islamic police continue to uphold fasting laws.
In the northern Nigerian state of Kano, the Islamic police, known as Hisbah, have begun enforcing fasting regulations, arresting Muslims found eating and drinking in public as part of the Ramadan observance. The organization reported the arrest of 25 individuals—20 for not observing the fast and five for selling food. Hisbah's deputy commander, Mujahid Aminudeen, emphasized the importance of respecting Ramadan, condemning public displays of eating as disrespectful during this holy month.
Commenting on the motivations behind the crackdown, Aminudeen noted that public complaints often prompt swift action from Hisbah when individuals are reported for consuming food in view of others. This is particularly significant during a time when fasting is mandated from dawn until dusk, a tenet central to Islamic practice.
These arrests are not new; last year, those apprehended were released after committing to fasting, with many requiring oversight from their relatives. However, this year’s group faces stricter consequences, as they have been charged in a Sharia court, aligning with the region's dual system of secular and religious law that applies predominantly to the Muslim population.
Sharia, introduced in twelve northern Nigerian states over twenty years ago, allows for the enforcement of Islamic laws alongside federal statutes. The enforcement is limited to Muslim citizens, who are subject to the edicts that guide personal conduct and religious observance.
The month of Ramadan holds deep religious significance for Muslims, who commemorate the first revelations of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. Fasting during this month, recognized as one of the Five Pillars of Islam, requires abstaining from food and drink throughout the daylight hours. The current Ramadan is anticipated to conclude on March 30, subjecting participants to over two weeks of strict adherence to these fasting laws.
This action by Hisbah comes amidst broader discussions about governance and religious enforcement in Nigeria, where the balance between localized religious practices and state law remains a contentious issue.
