The Katsina State Hisbah Board has banned girls from engaging in night hawking across the state to protect girls from abuse.
The government announced that the girls selling in the area must stop by 10:00pm daily, adding that the restriction is part of measures introduced by the board to protect girls from sexual abuse, exploitation and other social risks associated with trading late at night.
In a statement issued in Wednesday, it also informed that the directive also aims at ensuring that public activities conform with Islamic teachings, adding that the restriction would cover markets, motor parks and other public places where hawking takes place.
The Commandant General of the board, Saifullahi Musa, said that the board had received reports of girls being exposed to dangerous situations while engaging in night trading, including sexual violence and activities considered contrary to Islamic principles.
“Reports indicate that some of these girls engage in illicit activities, while others are raped and some commit adultery.
“These practices are against the teachings of Islam, and we will not allow them to continue,” he said.
Musa disclosed that Hisbah personnel would be deployed to strategic locations, particularly markets and motor parks, to monitor compliance and enforce the directive.
The commandant general also cautioned parents against allowing their children, especially girls, to hawk goods during late hours, urging them to take greater responsibility for their safety and welfare.
He mentioned that beyond the restriction on night hawking, the board plans to regulate traditional medicine dealers over concerns about the use of vulgar and offensive language in advertising their products.
Saifullahi further raised concerns about reports that some brothels had reopened in parts of the state, warning operators to shut down or face legal action.
He maintained that the existing prohibition on the sale of alcoholic drinks, particularly beer, remained in force, warning traders against selling such products in public places.
The Hisbah chief called on residents, particularly Muslims, to support the board’s activities, insisting that its responsibility was to promote Islamic values rather than victimise members of the public.
He added that the board would discharge its responsibilities within the limits of its enabling law while continuing to enforce its directives across Katsina State.