Security agencies in Kano State have been ordered to clamp down on a group operating under the name “Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi” following an executive directive declaring its activities illegal.
The directive, signed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on December 8, 2025, empowers the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other agencies to halt all recruitment, training and mobilisation linked to the group and to investigate its promoters.
According to the state government, intelligence reports revealed that the group had been operating without lawful authority, recruiting youths and running parallel enforcement activities in violation of the Kano State Hisbah Board Law.
Speaking while briefing journalists, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, said only the Kano State Hisbah Board is legally empowered to coordinate Hisbah-related duties in the state.
The government warned that the existence of a parallel Hisbah structure poses a threat to public peace and undermines the statutory mandate of the recognised Board.
The executive order expressly prohibits any individual or group from recruiting, assembling, training or deploying persons for the purpose of operating an unauthorised Hisbah or similar enforcement outfit in Kano.
Governor Yusuf also declared all activities of the proscribed group unlawful, illegal and void, warning that impersonation of Hisbah uniforms, symbols or authority would attract sanctions.
Residents were cautioned that participating in, supporting or affiliating with the banned group constitutes an offence under state law. Those already recruited were advised to disengage immediately and report to the nearest security agency, Hisbah office or local government authority.
The order further provides for prosecution of offenders on charges including unlawful assembly, impersonation of lawful authorities and establishment of unauthorised security formations.
Security Agencies Move In as Kano Outlaws ‘Independent Hisbah’ Group
