The Kano State Hisbah Board has announced a statewide ban on the downloading and distribution of movies through mobile phones, saying the measure is aimed at safeguarding public morality and strengthening adherence to Islamic values.
The directive takes immediate effect across all 44 local government areas of Kano State and is expected to be enforced through monitoring and patrol operations by officials of the board.
The Deputy Commander General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Dr. Mujahid Aminuddeen, disclosed the decision in a WhatsApp message issued on Thursday.
“The Hisbah board has banned downloading and distribution of movies through mobile phones across the 44 local government areas in the state,” he said.
According to Aminuddeen, the board took the decision following complaints from members of the public regarding the activities of individuals involved in the mobile movie distribution business.
He alleged that some operators had been circulating pornographic films and other video materials considered inconsistent with Islamic teachings and the cultural traditions of Kano State.
The Deputy Commander explained that the board viewed the development as a growing threat to public morality and social values, particularly among young people.
He said Hisbah personnel had already been mobilised to ensure full implementation of the directive throughout the state.
“The board has deployed its personnel to monitor compliance through routine patrols and enforcement operations across the state.
“Anyone found violating the directive will face legal action in accordance with the laws of Kano State,” the Deputy Commander said.
Aminuddeen advised those whose businesses would be affected by the directive to pursue other legitimate and lawful means of earning income.
He maintained that the objective of the ban was not to deprive anyone of their livelihood but to protect society from content considered harmful and morally offensive.
The Hisbah official also expressed concern over what he described as the increasing level of moral decadence among young people, attributing part of the problem to widespread access to indecent movies and videos through mobile devices.
According to him, limiting the circulation of such materials would contribute to preserving the religious and cultural values of the state while protecting younger generations from inappropriate content.
The Kano State Hisbah Board, which is responsible for enforcing Sharia-related regulations in the state, has over the years introduced several measures designed to promote Islamic values and public morality.
The board has consistently implemented policies restricting activities, entertainment and media content it considers contrary to the religious and cultural norms observed in Kano State.
The latest directive adds to previous efforts by the board aimed at regulating public behaviour and ensuring compliance with laws rooted in the state’s interpretation of Islamic principles.
