Sokoto Hisbah Denies Desecrating Danfodiyo’s Grave
From Bashir Rabe Mani in Sokoto
The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has denied allegations that its operatives desecrated the grave of Shehu Usmanu Danfodiyo located in Sokoto.
The operatives had conducted security operation around the grace yard, locally known as Hubbaren Shehu, on Thursday, June 11, 2026.
The Hisba Commandant General, Malam Usman Abdullahi Jatau, dismissed he claim is “false and malicious,” insisting that the personnel acted to protect and preserve the site’s historical and spiritual significance.
The June 11 operation led to the arrest of 26 men and women across five locations: Nakasari, Hubbare, Offa Road, Sokoto Main Motor Park, and Giginya Hotel.
Jatau said the operation targeted those committing acts that were contrary to law and public morality.
According to Jatau, the only incident involving Hubbaren Shehu occurred when Hisbah operatives met a group of youths playing football directly on centuries-old graves within the area.
“Upon sighting our team, the youths fled. We did not arrest anyone, but we seized the football to stop further desecration of the burial ground.”
He said “protecting those graves is part of our duty to preserve public morality and respect for the dead.”
The cleric stressed that Hisbah personnel did not enter, damage, or violate Hubbaren Shehu itself, describing the site as a sacred ground to the people of Sokoto.
“We urge the public to disregard these rumors. Hisbah will continue to carry out its mandate lawfully, respectfully, and firmly to maintain peace and good conduct across the state,” he said.
The Hisbah Commandant General reaffirmed their commitment to upholding morality while respecting the heritage and values of Sokoto people.
Meanwhile, the Hisbah board has carried out a late-night raid at Maryam Abacha Hospital in the Old Market area of Sokoto city on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
According to officials, the operation was triggered by credible intelligence indicating that some individuals were impersonating medical staff to gain access to the hospital and engage in activities deemed contrary to law and societal values.
“The objective of this raid is to ensure compliance with the law and to prevent anything that could threaten peace and good conduct within our society.”
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