In a renewed effort to enforce Sharia law during the holy month of Ramadan, the Kano State Hisbah Board has raided and sealed a sports betting shop in the state. The Islamic police carried out the operation as part of a broader campaign to uphold religious discipline and ensure strict adherence to Islamic teachings.
Hisbah officials shared images of operatives sealing the premises on their official Facebook page, further reinforcing their commitment to eradicating activities considered un-Islamic under Kano’s legal framework.
Confirming the development, the Deputy Commander of Hisbah in Kano, Sheikh Mujahideen Aminudeen, stated that the raid was conducted in compliance with the state’s strict Sharia laws, which prohibit gambling and other vices.
“We successfully shut down the betting shop after conducting a raid on the premises,” Aminudeen told journalists.
He expressed deep concern that despite the sacredness of Ramadan, some Muslims still indulge in gambling, an act forbidden in Islam.
“It is painful to see some Muslims still engaging in such practices during this holy period of fasting and spiritual reflection,” he added.
Kano State, along with 11 other northern states in Nigeria, officially adopted Sharia law in 2000, banning activities such as gambling, prostitution, and alcohol consumption. The latest raid comes just days after Hisbah detained 20 Muslims for eating and drinking in public during fasting hours and arrested five others for selling food in broad daylight.
According to Aminudeen, all 25 suspects will face trial in a Sharia court and receive appropriate penalties. He emphasized that Hisbah’s enforcement strictly targets Muslims, stating:
“It is important to note that we don’t concern ourselves with non-Muslims.”
Hisbah’s enforcement operations extend beyond food consumption and gambling. The board has been clamping down on individuals with “indecent” haircuts, people wearing shorts above the knee, and commercial tricycle riders mixing male and female passengers.
Aminudeen revealed that most of their actions are based on reports from concerned residents.
“We receive calls from people who are enraged when they see individuals violating Ramadan rules, and we act swiftly to enforce compliance,” he said.
Last year, some individuals arrested for eating publicly during Ramadan were released after pledging to complete the fast, while others were placed under guardianship. However, Hisbah has vowed that there will be no leniency this year, as all offenders will face full legal consequences.
This latest crackdown underscores Hisbah’s unwavering commitment to enforcing religious discipline and ensuring that Kano remains a model of Islamic governance, particularly during Ramadan.
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