A group of 11 people were detained by the Hisbah Board in the Nigerian state of Kano, accused of eating during Ramadan. This has sparked debate about the extent of the Hisbah Board’s authority and whether it is appropriate to detain individuals for actions that are not illegal under civil law. Some argue that the detentions violate the right to freedom of religion, while others argue that it is necessary to protect the sanctity of Ramadan.
According to Lawal Fagge, spokesperson for the Hisbah Board, 10 men and a woman selling groundnuts were detained after being observed eating by members of the public. The arrests were made based on tips received from the public, who reported observing the individuals eating during Ramadan.
“We got 11 persons on Tuesday including a lady selling groundnuts who was seen eating from her wares, and some persons alerted us,”Fagge said.
“The other 10 were men and were arrested across the city especially close to markets where a lot of activities happen.”
The 11 accused were released after pledging to abstain from food and drink for the remainder of Ramadan. In addition, their families were asked to ensure that they abide by the fast.
“For some of them, we had to see their relatives or guardians to have family monitor them,” he said.
In addition, Fagge clarified that non-Muslims are not subject to the same restrictions as Muslims during Ramadan. However, he stated that non-Muslims could face repercussions if they are found to be selling food to Muslims during the fast.
“We do not arrest non-Muslims because this does not concern them, and the only time they could be guilty of a crime is when we find out they cook food to sell to Muslims that are supposed to be fasting,” Fagge added.
During Ramadan, which began on March 11 and ends on April 9, Muslims are required to abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. This period is observed by Muslims around the world as a time of prayer, reflection, and fasting. The goal of the fast is to cleanse the body and mind and to deepen one’s connection with God.