The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) Hisbah FCT Command has clarified its identity, mandate and operations in the Federal Capital Territory, stressing that it is a voluntary, community-oriented and non-coercive organisation, not a parallel security agency.
Key points from the Command’s statement:
- Community-focused: Hisbah FCT says its primary roles are dialogue, mediation, reconciliation, sensitisation, peacebuilding and community outreach.
- Not a security agency: The Command says it does not compete with or replace the Police, DSS, courts, traditional institutions or other constituted authorities.
- Respect for the law: Criminal matters and issues outside its mandate are to be referred to the appropriate law enforcement or judicial authorities.
- Operates under SCSN: Hisbah FCT functions under the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, guided by its organisational framework and by-laws, while respecting the Nigerian Constitution and applicable laws.
- Different from state Hisbah: The Command clarified that it should not automatically be equated with government-established Hisbah commissions or boards operating in some states.
- Traditional institutions: Hisbah FCT says it recognises traditional rulers, chiefs, district heads and community leaders as important partners in maintaining peace and social harmony.
- Engagement with authorities: The Command disclosed consultations and courtesy visits involving the DSS, Nigeria Police Force, Shari’ah Court of Appeal, traditional rulers, Islamic scholars and other stakeholders.
- Over 1,000 personnel: Within approximately one year of operation, the Command says its active membership has grown to more than 1,000 personnel across the FCT.
- Six divisional commands: It has established six divisional structures broadly corresponding with the six FCT Area Councils.
- Training and mediation: A three-day orientation programme was held from August 7–9, 2026, while the Command says it has facilitated about 10 voluntary reconciliation and mediation processes involving individuals and families.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to human rights, non-violence, the rule of law, peaceful coexistence and cooperation with constituted authorities.
It said its guiding philosophy is to “listen before it acts, counsel before it confronts, reconcile before disagreements escalate and refer matters to the appropriate authorities” whenever necessary.
The SCSN Hisbah FCT Command appealed to traditional rulers, government officials, security agencies, religious leaders, community leaders and residents to see it as a partner in community peacebuilding, while welcoming constructive criticism and legitimate concerns.
Hon. Isah Umar, Esq., LL.B (Hons), B.L., Deputy Commandant, Administration, for the Commandant General, SCSN Hisbah FCT Command.
