Islamic authorities in Kano, a state in northern Nigeria, have arrested several Muslims for eating and drinking in public as well as for selling food at the start of Ramadan, when fasting from dawn to dusk is mandatory for observant Muslims.
According to Mujahid Aminudeen, deputy commander of the Hisbah (Islamic police), 20 people were arrested for failing to fast and five others for selling food. He stated that the crackdown would continue throughout the holy month, which began on Saturday.
“It is important to note that we don’t concern ourselves with non-Muslims,” Aminudeen told the BBC.
He emphasised that any form of disrespect for Ramadan would not be tolerated, saying:
“It’s heart-breaking 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.”
All 25 individuals were charged in a Sharia court, where they now face punishment.
Aminudeen revealed that the Hisbah often receive tip-offs from the public when people are spotted eating during fasting hours.
“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 said.
Beyond enforcing Ramadan fasting, Hisbah officials also arrested individuals for having “inappropriate haircuts”, wearing shorts above the knee, and tricycle drivers accused of mixing male and female passengers.
In 2023, those arrested for not fasting were released after pledging to observe the fast. Some were placed under the supervision of their relatives or guardians to ensure compliance.
This year, however, the authorities are taking a tougher stance, requiring all offenders to face the Sharia court.
Sharia, or Islamic law, was introduced over two decades ago in 12 northern Nigerian states with Muslim-majority populations. It operates alongside secular law but does not apply to Christian minorities living in these states.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, holds profound religious significance in Islam. It is believed to be the period when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad.
Fasting, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is a fundamental obligation for Muslims, requiring them to abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours.
This year’s Ramadan is expected to last 29 or 30 days, concluding on Sunday, March 30.
