11 People Arrested for Eating During Ramadan Fasting Period in Nigeria’s Kano State”

International news outlets have reported that In Nigeria's northern state of Kano, where a majority Muslim population resides, and the Islamic police known as Hisbah arrested 11 individuals for eating food during the Ramadan fast.

The state operates under both Islamic Sharia law and secular law. Hisbah conducts annual searches of eateries and markets during Ramadan.

According to BBC, the 10 men and one woman were apprehended across the city, particularly near busy markets. Hisbah spokesman Lawal Fagge explained that non-Muslims are exempt from arrest, except if they are found selling food to fasting Muslims.

Those arrested were released after pledging to observe the fast diligently. Sharia was introduced in 12 northern Nigerian states over two decades ago, coinciding with secular law.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, holds significant religious importance, marking the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. Fasting during daylight hours is one of Islam's Five Pillars. This year, Ramadan is expected to last from March 11 to April 9.