Katsina Activist Petitions DSS Over Hisbah Abuses

Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times

A Katsina-based activist, Ahmad Ridwan, has petitioned Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS), seeking an investigation into alleged human rights abuses, unlawful arrests and excessive force by officials of the state’s Hisbah board.

In a petition dated October 13, 2026, Ridwan asked the DSS to investigate Muhammad Shitu Maslaha, a former deputy commander of the board, and Nafiu Akilu, whom he identified as an official overseeing its operations.

The activist alleged that some Hisbah officials had assaulted residents, arrested people without lawful authority, searched homes without warrants and detained individuals illegally.

The allegations have not been independently verified. The officials named and the Hisbah board had not responded to the claims as of the time of publication.

Ridwan cited the case of Jibrin Tanimu, a Katsina-based businessman, alleging that it involved forced entry into a residence, seizure of property and unlawful detention.

He said the resignations of former Hisbah commander Dr Aminu Usman, popularly known as Abu Ammar, and Maslaha should not prevent investigations into alleged misconduct during their time in office.

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The activist urged the DSS to establish the facts and refer any substantiated criminal allegations to the appropriate authorities for prosecution.

He also called for stronger oversight of Hisbah operations, arguing that the agency’s role in promoting moral conduct and religious observance did not authorise officials to exercise police powers unlawfully or punish alleged offenders through physical violence.

Ridwan cited Sections 34, 35 and 37 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended, which address human dignity, personal liberty and privacy.

He asked the DSS to question the officials, investigate the allegations, pursue legal action where warranted and ensure that Hisbah operations comply with the law.

Ridwan said the petition was motivated by concerns about human rights, public safety and accountability, rather than opposition to a religious institution.