Hisbah Arrests TikToker for Saying Fornication is Cheaper Than Marriage in Kano

A popular TikTok content creator, Namadina Tudunwada, has been arrested by the Kano State Hisbah Board over allegations that he used his social media platform to encourage fornication among young people.

The arrest was confirmed on Monday by the Deputy Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Mujahid Aminuddeen, in a statement issued to the public.

According to the board, operatives attached to the Hisbah command in Tudunwada Local Government Area apprehended the TikToker after a video he posted online sparked controversy and drew widespread attention.

In the video, which has since circulated on social media, Namadina allegedly compared the financial cost of marriage with that of engaging in illicit sexual relationships. He was quoted as saying that while marriage could cost up to ₦200,000, fornication might require only about ₦2,000.

The remarks have generated debate online, with authorities expressing concern that such statements could influence young people to view immoral conduct as a more attractive alternative to marriage.

The Hisbah Board accused the content creator of promoting behaviour that runs contrary to the moral and religious values upheld in the state.

“The suspect was arrested after making statements capable of misleading young people and encouraging immoral behaviour,” the board said.

Officials believe the content could have a negative impact on impressionable youths, particularly at a time when social media personalities wield significant influence over public opinion and lifestyle choices.

Aminuddeen stated that the board had commenced a detailed investigation into the matter and would determine the next course of action based on the outcome of its findings.

“We will expand our investigation and take the appropriate action in accordance with the law,” he said.

The incident has once again highlighted the growing scrutiny facing social media influencers in northern Nigeria, where religious and cultural institutions closely monitor online content deemed capable of undermining societal values.

The Hisbah Board also issued a warning to content creators and influencers, urging them to exercise caution and responsibility when producing material for public consumption.

It stressed that content shared on digital platforms can have far-reaching consequences and should be guided by moral, religious and social responsibility.