Muslims Arrested for Eating Kano Hisbah Faces Public Backlash

Muslims Arrested For Eating Kano Hisbah Faces Public Backlash

Both Muslims and Christians in Nigeria have criticized the Kano State Hisbah Board Department of Public Enlightenment for their recent actions. On Tuesday, they apprehended at least 11 Muslims for consuming food during the Ramadan fast, sparking widespread condemnation….READ ALSO In Case You Missed It: Common Errors Made By Muslims During Ramadan

According to reports by Gistreel, the fasting period for Ramadan was officially declared by the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, on Monday, March 11, 2024. During Ramadan, Muslims are required to abstain from eating, drinking, sex, and smoking from dawn until sunset.

BBC confirmed the arrests, citing Hisbah spokesman Lawal Fagge, who stated that the detained individuals, consisting of 10 men and one woman, were released after pledging not to deliberately break their fast again. Fagge explained that the arrests occurred after members of the public alerted Hisbah officials to individuals eating in public, particularly around market areas in the city. He clarified that Hisbah’s enforcement activities are targeted at Muslims, as non-Muslims are exempt.

In response to the arrests, Nigerians expressed their dismay on social media. @Halfvirginia questioned the legality of such actions, while @Chrisdaramola supported the arrests, emphasizing the importance of adhering to Ramadan fasting. @RadicalYouthMan found the situation ironic, considering the Islamic state’s obligation to fast, and @Henrie089 raised concerns about health issues that might prevent fasting. @imarahoo criticized Hisbah’s priorities, suggesting they focus on protecting Muslims from violence rather than enforcing religious restrictions.