Nigerian Muslims Arrested for Eating in Public During Ramadan
Authorities in Kano, a predominantly Muslim state in northern Nigeria, have intensified crackdowns on those violating Ramadan fasting rules. The Islamic police, known as Hisbah, have arrested 25 people, including 20 for publicly eating and drinking, and five for selling food during fasting hours.
The deputy commander of Hisbah, Mujahid Aminudeen, confirmed that the operations will continue throughout the holy month of Ramadan, emphasizing the importance of respecting religious practices.
“It is important to note that we don’t concern ourselves with non-Muslims,” Aminudeen stated. “But it is heart-breaking that in such a holy month meant for fasting, adult Muslims would be seen eating and drinking publicly. We won’t condone that, and that’s why we went out to make arrests.”
Religious Law and Enforcement
The individuals arrested have been charged in a Sharia court and will face legal consequences. This marks a departure from last year when offenders were released after pledging to observe the fast. Hisbah officials have indicated that this year’s violators will not receive leniency.
Hisbah, which enforces Islamic morality in Kano, operates under the Sharia legal system, which was introduced in 12 northern Nigerian states more than two decades ago. The law applies only to Muslims and does not affect the Christian minority living in these states.
According to Aminudeen, enforcement efforts extend beyond fasting violations. Hisbah officials have also arrested individuals for having “inappropriate haircuts,” wearing shorts above the knee, and for tricycle drivers transporting both male and female passengers together.
“We receive tip-offs from people who are enraged after seeing others eating in public, and we act fast by making arrests,” he added.
Significance of Ramadan and Fasting
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, holds special religious significance for Muslims, who believe it was during this period that the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Fasting from dawn to dusk is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which form the foundation of Muslim religious practice.
This year, Ramadan began on Saturday and is expected to last 29 or 30 days, concluding on Sunday, March 30. During this period, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical indulgences from sunrise to sunset as an act of devotion and discipline.
Public Reactions and Controversy
While Hisbah officials continue to enforce religious compliance, their actions have sparked debates over personal freedoms and religious enforcement. Critics argue that forced compliance undermines individual choice, while supporters believe it helps maintain religious discipline.
With stricter enforcement measures in place this year, the issue highlights the ongoing intersection of religion, governance, and personal freedom in Nigeria’s northern states. As Ramadan progresses, all eyes will be on Kano and the broader implications of these actions on religious enforcement and civil liberties.
In other news: Moon Sighted in Saudi Arabia, Ramadan Begins on Saturday
Nigerian Muslims Arrested for Eating in Public During Ramadan