The Islamic police, known as Hisbah, have begun raiding and closing down sports betting shops in Kano city, citing illegal operations.
The crackdown follows complaints from community leaders and parents concerned about the growing number of gambling addicts.
On the first day of the raids, 30 shops were shut down in the Munjibir area, a popular resort district. Owners were given a warning, but future offenders will face arrest, according to Hisbah officer, Aminudeen.
Kano state operates under Sharia law, which prohibits gambling, prostitution, and alcohol consumption. While bookmakers and bars are tolerated in Christian neighborhoods, the current crackdown targets Muslim areas.
The sports betting industry has seen rapid growth in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions. However, the economic crisis has led many to gamble in hopes of winning big. This has resulted in widespread addiction, with parents reporting children dropping out of school to gamble.
Hisbah aims to curb this trend, citing false pretenses under which bookmakers operate. The crackdown will continue, with unknown punishment for offenders, potentially including fines.
Sharia law was introduced in Kano in 2000, along with 11 other Muslim-majority northern states. The ban on gambling, prostitution, and alcohol consumption remains in effect.
