The Katsina State Hisbah Board has ordered the immediate closure of New Palace Hotel on June 13, 2024, following allegations of corrupting the morals of underage girls.
The decision was announced in a statement issued by the Hisbah Board and signed by the Commander General, Dr. Aminu Usman.
According to the statement, the hotel was found to be violating the Board's regulations by allowing underage girls to stay on its premises.
The Board discovered two underage girls in the same room during a recent inspection, which contravenes the Board's laws.
"This is the second time such an offence has been recorded at New Palace Hotel, despite previous warnings and commitments from the hotel's management to prevent such incidents," the statement read.
During a collaborative meeting with hotel managers across Katsina State, including the manager of New Palace Hotel, it was agreed that no hotel would accommodate underage children. Any breach of this agreement would result in severe penalties.
"Due to the hotel's failure to comply with the Board's regulations and meet the stipulated conditions, the Hisbah Board has decided to shut down New Palace Hotel with immediate effect," the statement continued.
The Katsina State Hisbah Board remains committed to enforcing reforms and instilling discipline that aligns with the religious and cultural values of Katsina State under the rule of law to ensure lasting peace.
The closure of New Palace Hotel sends a strong message to other businesses in the state that the Hisbah Board will not tolerate violations of its regulations, particularly those involving the protection of minors.
The Board's decision to shut down the hotel underscores its dedication to upholding the moral standards and cultural values of Katsina State.
