The Kano State Hisbah Board has banned the downloading and distribution of movies through mobile phones across the state, citing the need to protect public morality and preserve Islamic values. The directive applies to all 44 local government areas in Kano and takes immediate effect.
Announcement and Enforcement
The ban was announced on Thursday by the Deputy Commander General of the board, Dr Mujahid Aminuddeen, in a statement. He confirmed that the board had prohibited the downloading and distribution of movies via mobile phones across the state. “The Hisbah board has banned downloading and distribution of movies through mobile phones across the 44 local government areas in the state,” Aminuddeen said.
The board has already begun enforcement, deploying personnel for routine patrols and operations to ensure compliance. “Anyone found violating the directive will face legal action in accordance with the laws of Kano State,” the Deputy Commander stated.
Reasons for the Ban
According to the board, the decision followed complaints that some operators were using mobile phones to circulate pornographic films and other video content considered inconsistent with Islamic teachings and the state's cultural values. The Hisbah Board, an Islamic moral enforcement agency established by the Kano State government to promote Sharia compliance, has a history of regulating public conduct and entertainment.
Previous Hisbah Directives
In recent years, the Kano Hisbah Board has introduced several strict social regulations. These include a ban on the use of headed mannequins by tailors and boutique owners to prevent the depiction of human forms deemed idolatrous, and a prohibition on using the term “Black Friday” for promotional sales. Hisbah officers have also arrested people eating during Ramadan, cracked down on “immoral” hairstyles, prohibited DJs from playing music at weddings, and banned the commercial distribution of uncensored films on mobile phones at local device-charging centres. The board recently apprehended 145 beggars as part of its enforcement activities.
