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| The arrests occurred during routine patrols conducted by the Hisbah in markets, restaurants, and cafes to enforce the daily fast from sunrise to sunset among Muslims. |
The Hisbah, the Islamic law enforcement agency of Kano State in northern Nigeria, arrested nine Muslims (seven men and two women) on Wednesday for allegedly eating in public during daylight hours on the first day of Ramadan.
According to General Mujahid Aminudeen, deputy commander of the Hisbah, those arrested claimed they were unaware of the start of the holy month of fasting. The arrests occurred during routine patrols conducted by the Hisbah in markets, restaurants, and cafes to enforce the daily fast from sunrise to sunset among Muslims.
Kano State, which has a Muslim majority, implements Sharia law alongside Nigeria's secular federal system. The Hisbah plays a crucial role in upholding Islamic moral precepts, particularly during Ramadan, a period when it is forbidden to eat, drink, or sell food to Muslims in public during fasting hours.
Those arrested are currently in custody. Authorities have indicated they will receive instructions on the importance of fasting and related religious practices. It is still unknown when they will be released, although similar previous cases have involved family members to ensure compliance with the conditions until the end of the month.