The International Peace and Secure Society (IPSS) has raised strong concerns over reports suggesting an attempt to create a new religious policing outfit in Kano State allegedly linked to former governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
In a statement issued by its Director General, Comrade (Dr.) Yahaya Danjuma Yusuf, the organisation said any move to set up a Hisbah-style group that does not operate under the authority of the state government poses a direct threat to public order.
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IPSS described the idea as “alarming,” stressing that Kano’s delicate social structure should not be exposed to actions capable of causing confusion or conflict. The group noted that Nigeria is currently facing serious security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, violent extremism, and rising social tension, adding that setting up a private enforcement group at such a time is both unlawful and dangerous.
According to the organisation, Kano already has a legally recognised Hisbah Board, and creating another version tied to a private foundation or political figure would “divide authority, mislead the public, and undermine the peace architecture of the state.”
It warned that the Constitution clearly places policing and security coordination under the Federal Government and the state governor, who serves as the Chief Security Officer. Allowing individuals or private groups to control enforcement structures, it said, could trigger confrontation and instability.
IPSS outlined several risks associated with establishing an unregulated Hisbah outfit. These include the possibility of unauthorized armed mobilisation, divided loyalties, public fear, infiltration by criminal elements, clashes with established agencies, and further weakening of Kano’s security environment.
The group advised that if the intention is to support disengaged Hisbah personnel, such efforts should be channelled into employment opportunities, vocational training, and community reintegration rather than turning them into a private security force.
IPSS called on the police, DSS, NSCDC, and other relevant agencies to investigate any mobilisation efforts connected to the alleged plan. It urged the authorities to work closely with the Kano State Government to prevent the rise of any illegal security structure.
The organisation also appealed to political actors, community leaders, and residents to desist from statements or actions capable of inciting fear or undermining recognised security systems.
