The Kano State Hisbah Board has banned the downloading and distribution of movies through mobile phones across all 44 local government areas of the state as part of efforts to protect public morality and uphold Islamic values.
According to Punch, the directive was announced on Thursday by the board’s Deputy Commander General, Dr. Mujahid Aminuddeen, who explained that the decision, followed complaints that some operators were using mobile phones to circulate pornographic films and other video content considered contrary to Islamic teachings and the cultural values of Kano State.
In his statement he stressed that the board has deployed Hisbah personnel across the state to monitor compliance through routine patrols and enforcement operations. He warned that individuals found violating the directive would face legal action in accordance with the laws of Kano State.
He also urged those whose livelihoods are affected by the ban to seek alternative, lawful means of earning income. While maintaining that the board’s priority is to protect society from content it considers damaging to the state’s moral and cultural fabric.
The deputy commander further linked the rising rate of moral decadence among youths to the growing consumption and circulation of indecent films and videos through mobile devices, stressing that stronger enforcement had become necessary.
However, the Kano State Hisbah Board, which oversees the enforcement of Sharia-related regulations in the state, has introduced a number of measures over the years. All aimed at promoting Islamic values and restricting activities or content it considers inconsistent with the state’s religious and cultural norms.
Notably, the latest directive adds to a series of policies by the board aimed at regulating public conduct and media content. While the officials insisting the measures are necessary to preserve the moral standards and traditions of Kano State.
