Kano Goes Hardline Ahead of Eid — “Modesty Must Be Respected”
Byline: IDNN Religion, Policy & Northern Affairs Desk
Kano — The Kano State Government, through its Ministry of Religious Affairs, has issued a stern advisory ahead of the Eid al-Adha festivities, warning residents and visitors to strictly observe Islamic morality codes or face immediate penalties.
According to Commissioner Ahmad Tijjani Awwalu, the state will not tolerate “free mixing” of males and females at event grounds, funfairs, or social gatherings.
“Kano is a city of discipline. No immoral dressing or mixed dancing will be tolerated in the name of celebration,” he said.
Dress Code Alert: Hisbah Mobilized
The Islamic police force Hisbah has been placed on full alert to:
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Patrol public Eid venues
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Enforce modest dressing, especially among youth
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Disperse gatherings deemed indecent
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Arrest violators engaging in provocative conduct
“Ladies must wear hijab or proper coverings. Boys must avoid sagging trousers and hairstyles that insult Islamic values,” a Hisbah commander told IDNN.
What’s Banned This Eid in Kano?
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Mixed-gender parties
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Indecent public dancing or singing
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Loud music at Eid recreation centers
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Display of “un-Islamic fashion” in public
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Fireworks and unruly convoys
The Commissioner warned that funfair operators and amusement park managers will be held accountable for activities on their premises.
Public Divided Over Morality vs. Freedom
While conservative religious leaders have applauded the move as “a stand for Islamic order,” civil rights advocates warn the crackdown could suppress cultural expression and infringe on individual rights.
“Kano isn’t a theocracy. People should be allowed to celebrate peacefully,” one activist told IDNN anonymously.
Last year, Hisbah operatives faced backlash after shaving off dreadlocks, seizing phones, and disrupting birthday parties under similar morality operations.
IDNN POWER PLAY ANALYSIS
Faith, Festivity & Control — Is Kano’s Morality Model Expanding or Cracking?
👉 Context:
Kano State has operated under Sharia-informed governance since 2000. But the tension between faith-driven policy and individual liberty continues to grow — especially among urban youth.
👉 What’s Driving the Hardline Stance?
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Rising youth population and urban entertainment trends
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Fear of “moral decay” from southern or Western influence
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Political need to maintain dominance of conservative clerics
👉 What to Watch:
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Possible confrontations between youth groups and Hisbah
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National reactions if arrests escalate
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The rising voice of progressive Muslim scholars calling for reform
🗣️ Bottom Line: Kano walks a tightrope — defending tradition while risking alienation of a new generation.