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The Traffic NG

Hisbah, Katsina

The Katsina State Hisbah Board has directed its operatives to obtain valid court orders or arrest warrants before entering hotels or private residences during enforcement operations, in a move aimed at strengthening compliance with the rule of law and protecting citizens’ constitutional rights.

The directive was contained in an internal circular issued by the board to all local government Hisbah commanders and personnel at its headquarters.

According to the circular, the decision followed a resolution reached at one of the board’s regular meetings and took immediate effect.

The board stated that henceforth, officers must secure a valid court order or arrest warrant before conducting searches or entering hotels and residential premises, except where the Commandant General authorises otherwise or where existing laws provide legal exemptions.

It explained that the measure was introduced to ensure that the board’s operations conform with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and other laws regulating law enforcement activities.

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The circular further warned officers against carrying out searches or authorising operations involving hotels or private homes without the required legal approval, except in situations expressly permitted by law.

The board directed all local government commanders to immediately communicate the new policy to officers under their supervision and ensure strict adherence to the directive.

It emphasised that respect for the constitutional rights of citizens must remain central to all enforcement activities, urging personnel to conduct their duties professionally and in accordance with due process.

According to the board, compliance with lawful procedures is essential to maintaining public confidence in the Hisbah’s operations and preventing abuses of power.

The circular also made it clear that any officer found violating the directive would face disciplinary action by the board in addition to any legal consequences that might arise from such conduct.

The latest policy marks a significant procedural change for the Katsina State Hisbah Board, whose officers are responsible for enforcing aspects of Sharia law and public morality in the state.

The board has, over the years, carried out operations targeting activities considered contrary to Islamic moral standards, including raids on hotels, entertainment centres and private gatherings.

However, the new directive signals an effort to align such operations more closely with constitutional safeguards and established legal procedures governing searches and arrests.

Legal observers say the requirement for court-issued warrants could enhance accountability, reduce complaints of unlawful searches and strengthen public trust in law enforcement activities.

With the directive now in force, all Hisbah personnel across Katsina State are expected to comply strictly with the new procedures, as the board insists that enforcement of the law must itself be carried out within the confines of the law.