National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula arrives at the Supreme Court to cast his vote in the LSK elections on February 19, 2026. He was, however, barred from participating in the polls. PHOTO | COURTESY | JUDICIARY
Authorities in Kano, northern Nigeria, have arrested nine Muslims for allegedly eating in public during the ongoing Ramadan fast, officials said on Wednesday.
The arrests were carried out by the state’s Islamic police, known as Hisbah, following an intensified operation across restaurants, cafés and open markets aimed at identifying Muslims who were not observing the religious fast.
Speaking to journalists, Hisbah Deputy Commander General Mujahid Aminudeen said the nine individuals were picked up during routine patrols conducted in different parts of the city.
According to Aminudeen, the suspects told officers that they were unaware that the Ramadan period had already begun. He said the agency would focus on what he described as “guidance and correction” rather than punishment.
“Our role is to teach them the importance of fasting, reading the Holy Quran and observing Sharia law so that they can become better Muslims,” Aminudeen told the press.
The Hisbah commander added that the men would undergo religious counselling before being released, stressing that the aim of the operation was to uphold moral and religious standards within the predominantly Muslim state.
Hisbah officers conduct similar enforcement drives every year during the holy month of Ramadan, particularly in Kano, one of Nigeria’s most conservative Islamic regions. The patrols typically focus on eateries and public spaces where people may be seen eating or drinking during fasting hours.
In 2024, the agency arrested 11 Muslims in similar circumstances after they were allegedly found eating during the daytime fast. The 11 were later released after pledging to observe the fast and to refrain from eating or drinking in public during the holy month. Their families were also asked to monitor their behaviour and ensure compliance.
During Ramadan, Muslims are expected to abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset, while also dedicating the period to prayer, self-discipline and charitable acts.
The Ramadan period, which began on Tuesday, February 17, is expected to end on Thursday, March 19, according to the authorities.
Hisbah officials have said the enforcement operations will continue throughout the holy month as part of efforts to ensure public observance of Islamic practices across Kano State.
