Islamic police in Kano State have arrested nine individuals for eating in public during Ramadan fasting hours, enforcing Sharia regulations despite Nigeria’s secular constitution.
The suspects, seven men and two women, were detained for breaching Islamic fasting obligations.
The Kano State Hisbah Corps said its operatives arrested the suspects on Wednesday after they were reportedly seen eating at midday, an act considered a direct breach of the Islamic fast observed from dawn until sunset.
During the Ramadan period, Hisbah officials regularly patrol markets, restaurants and public areas to ensure that Muslims comply with fasting obligations.
Although some eateries remain open in neighbourhoods largely populated by Christians and other non-Muslims, practising Muslims are prohibited from eating, drinking or engaging in any activity that invalidates the fast between sunrise and sunset.
Fasting in Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and is regarded as a core religious obligation.
Deputy Commander Mujahid Aminudeen told newsmen that those detained comprised seven men and two women.
“We have arrested them and they are currently with us. We will teach them the importance of fasting, how to pray, how to read the Qur’an, and how to be good Muslims,” Aminudeen said.
