In a dramatic raid that underscores the strict enforcement of Shari’a law in Kano State, the Hisbah Board has arrested a couple for solemnizing their marriage at a restaurant without parental consent. The incident, which took place at Banana Restaurant on Zoo Road, has sparked fresh debates over the growing influence of the Hisbah Corps in regulating social conduct.
Confirming the arrest to PUNCH Online on Thursday, the Deputy Commander General of Operations, Dr. Mujahideen Abubakar, expressed deep concern over what he described as an “unacceptable violation” of Islamic law.
“It is very unfortunate to report that the purported marriage was conducted in a public restaurant by friends of the groom, without the consent of the couple’s parents,” Abubakar stated.
Acting on a tip-off, Hisbah operatives stormed the restaurant on Wednesday night, leading to the arrest of the newlyweds. However, several of the groom’s friends, who facilitated the event, reportedly fled the scene before they could be apprehended.
“We arrested the couple and have launched a manhunt for the guests who participated in this illegal solemnisation,” Abubakar disclosed.
The Hisbah official further warned that the board would not tolerate actions that contravene the principles of Shari’a, stressing that those involved would be held accountable.
“The couple violated all the fundamental conditions of marriage under Islamic law. We will not stand by and allow such undesirable elements to continue defying religious and cultural norms in Kano,” he asserted.
While Hisbah maintains that its actions are aimed at upholding Islamic morality, the incident has reignited discussions about the balance between religious enforcement and personal freedoms in the state. As the board intensifies its search for other attendees, the fate of the detained couple remains uncertain.
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