By Hussaini Kafi, Kano
Mixed reactions have greeted the arrest of a couple who wedded at a restaurant in Kano State by Hisbah forces.
The Hisbah Board arrested a couple for conducting their marriage ceremony at a popular restaurant in the state, an act authorities claim violated Islamic law.
The Hisbah Board maintains that the couple violated key marriage conditions under Shari’ah law by not obtaining parental consent.
Additionally, Hisbah officials have launched a manhunt for all guests who attended the ceremony, as many reportedly fled the scene during the raid.
“We arrested the couple while we are trailing friends of the groom who fled the restaurant after our personnel stormed the place,” an official stated.
The arrest has sparked diverse reactions among residents of Kano city.
An individual who witnessed the raid and spoke on condition of anonymity recounted:
“We were surprised when Hisbah officials entered and apprehended the couple. It was a peaceful gathering, and the couple seemed happy. The sudden intervention was unexpected.”
Residents remain divided over the incident. While some support Hisbah’s enforcement of religious and cultural values, others argue that personal freedoms should be respected.
A local trader, Aminu Garba, defended the action:
“Our traditions and religious teachings are clear on marital procedures. Disregarding them can lead to societal decay. Hisbah is upholding our values.”
However, Fatima Musa, a university student, expressed concern:
“While it’s essential to respect traditions, individuals should have the freedom to make personal choices, especially concerning marriage. The authorities should consider a more lenient approach.”
The couple, whose wedding was solemnized at Banana Restaurant along Zoo Road, had reportedly been in a long-term relationship before deciding to tie the knot at the venue. However, the Hisbah Board, the state’s Islamic police, deemed the ceremony improper and conducted a raid on the location following a tip-off from concerned residents.
Confirming the arrest, the Board’s Deputy Commander General in charge of operations, Dr. Mujahideen Aminu Abubakar, told newsmen on Thursday that the couple was apprehended on Wednesday night.
“It’s very unfortunate to tell you that the solemnization of the purported marriage was conducted in the restaurant by friends of the man without the consent of the parents of the couple,” Abubakar stated.
He further warned that the Board would not tolerate actions that violate Shari’a in Kano State and vowed to crack down on those involved.
According to the Deputy Commander, the couple violated essential marriage conditions under Islamic law, calling the act a “flagrant abuse of Shari’a.”
“It is very unfortunate that the purported marriage was conducted in a restaurant by friends of the groom without the parents’ approval,” reiterated Mujahideen Abubakar
As the debate continues, the incident highlights the growing tension between traditional values and individual freedoms in Kano society.
