The Kano State Government has issued a comprehensive executive order prohibiting the formation and operation of any unauthorized Hisbah like groups, with a particular focus on a self-acclaimed outfit known as the Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi.
The order titled “Kano State Government (Prohibition of the Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi) Order 2025,” was signed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and formally read to the public by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, during a press briefing on Friday.
Comred Waiya explained that the order is backed by Section 5(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) which grants the governor executive powers to ensure public order and enforce state laws.
According to the Commissioner, the government is alarmed by the activities of individuals and groups who have been recruiting, mobilising and organising members under the banner of the so-called Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi without legal authority and in violation of existing laws.
“amount to the creation of parallel and unauthorized enforcement structures capable of disturbing public peace and undermining the statutory mandate of the Kano State Hisbah Board.
The order categorically declares the formation and operation of the Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi unlawful, stressing that it is prohibited from carrying out any activity within the state.
The government further reaffirmed that the Kano State Hisbah Board remains the sole legally recognized institution authorised to coordinate Hisbah-related functions.
The impersonation of the Board authority, uniforms, symbols or activities is now expressly forbidden.
Waiya added that all security agencies including the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corpshave been directed to investigate the organisers and sponsors of the outlawed group shut down its activities and take necessary lawful measures to prevent any breach of peace.
The public was also cautioned that joining supporting or associating with the Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi constitutes a violation of Kano State laws.
“Individuals already recruited or approached by the group were urged to withdraw immediately and report to the nearest security office, Hisbah division, or local government authority.
“Violators risk prosecution under relevant laws for offences ranging from unlawful assembly to impersonation and the establishment of illegal enforcement structures.”
“For clarity, the order defines “Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi” to include any group, unit, movement or committee organised to perform Hisbah-like enforcement roles outside the statutory Hisbah Board.
The executive order signed by Governor Yusuf on December 8, 2025
takes immediate effect and will be gazetted by the Kano State Government Printer.
“It marks a decisive move by the administration to strengthen lawful religious enforcement and curb the proliferation of unregulated vigilante groups in the state.
