Sharada community in Kano State has rolled out 29 distinctive local laws aimed at curbing rising crime and promoting moral conduct—one of the most notable prohibits boyfriend-girlfriend meetings after 10 p.m., a move designed to clamp down on potential criminal activity.
Other new regulations bar couples from meeting in tinted vehicles and forbid traditional horse riding at wedding celebrations, aiming to eliminate scenarios often exploited by criminals for robbery or harassment.
Additional restrictions target property rentals: lawyers and real estate agents must now secure the village head’s approval before leasing any property. This measure reflects efforts to trace and regulate housing-related activities that may hide illicit behavior.
Alhaji Iliyasu Muazu Sharada, the village head, explained that the laws followed consultations with ward leaders and elders, who testified that disguised criminal acts often play out in meeting spots and darkened vehicles.
Residents like Alhaji Abdullahi Bello support the restrictions, having witnessed scenarios where men used the pretext of dating to perpetrate wrongdoing. He believes the laws will help distinguish genuine relationships from criminal intent.
Yet, the policy isn’t without critics. University students like Aisha Yusuf argue that such sweeping restrictions unfairly control legitimate dating activities and civilian movement, especially at night, without conditions.
The Kano Municipal Chairman, Salim Hashim, endorsed the bylaws and pledged full government support for their enforcement, underscoring the community’s priority: security and social order over personal liberties.
