As Ramadan begins, the Islamic police in Kano, Nigeria, have made multiple arrests for public eating and selling food, emphasizing strict adherence to fasting. All detained individuals face Sharia court charges, with ongoing operations anticipated throughout the month.
Arrests for Public Eating During Ramadan Spark Controversy in Northern Nigeria
Arrests for Public Eating During Ramadan Spark Controversy in Northern Nigeria
Hisbah authorities in Kano enforce strict fasting laws as they apprehend individuals seen eating and selling food in public during the holy month of Ramadan.
The Islamic police, known as Hisbah, have initiated a crackdown in Kano, a northern state of Nigeria, by arresting Muslims observed eating and drinking in public during the holy month of Ramadan. The deputy commander of Hisbah, Mujahid Aminudeen, reported to the BBC that 20 individuals were taken into custody for not fasting and five others for selling food as Ramadan commenced on Saturday.
Aminudeen stated, "It is crucial to clarify that we do not focus on non-Muslims." He expressed dismay at the sight of adult Muslims publicly consuming food and drink during a time dedicated to fasting. "This is a holy month meant for reflection; such disrespect will not be tolerated," he remarked, outlining the reasons behind the arrests.
Those arrested have been charged in a Sharia court, with punishments to follow. Aminudeen mentioned that Hisbah occasionally receives tip-offs from the public regarding individuals seen eating openly. “We act promptly on such alerts,” he noted.
The enforcement of Ramadan fasting regulations has been stringent this year, contrasting with the leniency shown in the previous year when many offenders were released after committing to fast, often supported by family members monitoring their adherence. In contrast, this year's detainees face direct legal consequences.
In the context of Sharia law implemented over two decades ago in 12 northern states of Nigeria, which predominantly host Muslim populations, such regulations do not extend to non-Muslim communities.
Ramadan, recognized as the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, holds profound significance for Muslims, who believe it is the time when the Quran's initial verses were revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Fasting during this month, regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is observed daily from dawn until dusk, lasting 29 to 30 days, with the expected conclusion on March 30.
