The Kano State Government has issued an executive order banning a group known as Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi, declaring it illegal and a threat to public order. The order, signed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, was made under his constitutional powers to maintain peace and enforce state laws.
The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi-Waiyya, explained that Kano State law recognises only the officially constituted Hisbah Board as the lawful body authorised to carry out Hisbah activities across the state. The government raised concerns after reports emerged that individuals were mobilising and organising people under the name Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi without any legal backing.
The executive order prohibits the recruitment, assembly, or training of any persons to operate an unauthorised Hisbah or similar enforcement outfit. It states clearly that the formation, promotion, or operation of Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi, or any similar group, is illegal and void. The government also warned against impersonating the official Hisbah Board through the use of its uniforms, symbols, or authority.
Governor Yusuf has directed all security agencies to investigate the organisers and sponsors of the banned group and to immediately halt all its activities. Members of the public have been cautioned that joining, supporting, or aiding the group is a violation of state law, and anyone already involved is advised to disengage and report to the nearest security agency or Hisbah office.
The government noted that violators may face prosecution for offences including unlawful assembly, impersonation, and the formation of an unauthorised enforcement outfit. The executive order takes immediate effect and will be formally gazetted by the Kano State Government.
