In a recent development, the Islamic police in Nigeria’s Kano state apprehended 11 individuals who were seen consuming food during the fasting hours of Ramadan on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.
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Kano, known for its predominantly Muslim population, operates under an Islamic legal system known as Sharia, which coexists with secular law.
The Islamic police, commonly referred to as Hisbah, routinely conduct sweeps of eateries and markets during Ramadan to ensure compliance with fasting regulations.
The 11 detainees, consisting of 10 men and one woman, were promptly released after pledging an oath promising to abstain from intentionally breaking their fasts in the future.
According to Lawal Fagge, a spokesperson for Hisbah, the arrests were made following reports from concerned citizens. The individuals were found consuming food in various locations across the city, particularly near bustling market areas.
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Fagge clarified that non-Muslims are exempt from such enforcement measures, except in cases where they are suspected of selling food to fasting Muslims.
“Ramadan holds significant importance in Islam, symbolizing the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad,” explained Fagge. “Observing the fast during daylight hours is a fundamental tenet of the Islamic faith.”
Sharia law, introduced in Kano and 11 other northern Nigerian states over two decades ago, regulates various aspects of daily life, including religious practices.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is revered by Muslims worldwide. This year, Ramadan began on March 11 and is expected to conclude on April 92024, lasting a total of 30 days.
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