The Kano State Government has issued an Executive Order banning a group known as Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi, describing it as illegal and a threat to public order in the state.
The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi-Waiyya, confirmed the development on Friday, saying the order was signed by Governor Abba Kabir-Yusuf in line with his constitutional responsibility to maintain peace and enforce state laws.
According to Abdullahi-Waiyya, the directive was issued under Section 5(2) of the Constitution, which empowers the governor to take necessary steps to protect lives, property, and public safety across the state.
He explained that under the Kano State Hisbah Board Law, only the officially recognised Hisbah Board is authorised to coordinate and carry out Hisbah activities. Any other group operating outside that framework, he said, has no legal backing.
The commissioner expressed concern that some individuals have been mobilising people under the name Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi without lawful authority. He warned that allowing a parallel Hisbah structure could undermine the existing board and create confusion in law enforcement.
The Executive Order, he said, makes it illegal for anyone to recruit, assemble, train, or operate any parallel Hisbah or similar enforcement outfit in the state. The formation or promotion of any group using the banned name, or any similar title, is declared unlawful and void.
Abdullahi-Waiyya further stated that the order affirms the Kano State Hisbah Board as the only lawful body permitted to carry out Hisbah duties. It also prohibits impersonation of the board, including the use of its name, symbols, or authority by unauthorised persons.
He disclosed that Governor Yusuf has directed all security agencies to identify, investigate, and take action against the organisers and sponsors of the banned group. The order also warns that anyone who joins or supports the group is violating state laws.
Members of the public who have been recruited or contacted by the group have been advised to disengage immediately and report to security agencies or the nearest Hisbah office.
The commissioner added that violators will be prosecuted for offences including unlawful assembly, impersonation, and forming an unauthorised enforcement outfit. He said the Executive Order takes immediate effect and will be formally gazetted by the Kano State Government.
