Ramadan: 20 arrested for eating in public
GuardianMAR 5
Nigeria's Police Arrest 20 Muslims for Eating in Public
Above: Muslims perform the first tarawih prayer of the holy month of Ramadan at the Abuja National Mosque, Nigeria on March 1, 2025. Image copyright: Emmanuel Osodi/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The arrests are necessary to uphold the sanctity of Ramadan and protect religious values. Public eating during fasting hours disrespects this holy month and undermines communal religious observance. Swift enforcement action helps maintain social order and religious discipline.
Narrative B
Closing of schools during Ramadan and the arrests represent an overreach of religious policing and raise concerns about individual rights. The enforcement of an unnecessarily harsh approach creates unnecessary tension in a multi-religious society and could lead to discrimination.