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By Oscar Okhifo
Nine Muslims have been detained by Kano’s Islamic police also known as Hisbah, after being caught eating during the first day of Ramadan, highlighting the strict enforcement of Sharia in Nigeria’s northern state.
Kano, a northern Nigerian state with a predominantly Muslim population, operates a Sharia legal system alongside secular law.
Every year during Ramadan, Hisbah officers patrol cafes, restaurants, and markets to ensure Muslims observe fasting hours.
Some establishments remain open in areas with significant Christian populations.
For Muslims, fasting between sunrise and sunset is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, central to religious practice.
Mujahid Aminudeen, deputy commander general of the Hisbah, told newsmen that the nine detainees, seven men and two women, claimed they were unaware that Ramadan had begun.
“We have arrested them and they are with us. We will be teaching them the importance of fasting, how to pray, read the Quran, and become better Muslims,” Aminudeen said.It is unclear when the Hisbah will release the detainees.
In past incidents, authorities have contacted families to ensure proper monitoring so the individuals can complete the month-long fast.
Sharia law was introduced over 20 years ago in 12 northern states of Nigeria to operate alongside secular law, primarily in areas with majority Muslim populations.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is one of Islam’s holiest periods, marking when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
This year, fasting in Nigeria began on Wednesday, 18 February, and is expected to continue until 21 or 22 March, depending on the sighting of the moon.