The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has announced a ban on several wedding and social gathering practices, including the use of DJs, mixed-gender entertainment and the traditional marriage introduction event known as “Na Gani In So”, citing concerns over compliance with Islamic teachings.
The directive was announced by the Commander of the Sokoto State Hisbah Board, Malam Usman Abdullahi Jatau, during a press briefing in Sokoto on Tuesday.
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Jatau said the restrictions were introduced to protect the religious and moral values of the state, adding that some modern wedding customs were considered inconsistent with Islamic principles.
The board also prohibited the use of Wazigidi music at ceremonies, loudspeakers mounted on tricycles, women sitting beside tricycle riders, certain hairstyles it described as inappropriate among young people, and excessive spending on bridal gifts known locally as “lefe”.
According to the commander, the “Na Gani In So” marriage introduction practice, which involves prospective grooms presenting gifts such as drinks, biscuits, sweets and other items to the bride’s family, was not supported by Islamic teachings.
“We declare that these innovations (bid’ah), which are contrary to the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), have negative consequences for any marriage conducted in such a manner because it departs from the teachings of the Prophet,” Jatau said.
The Hisbah Board urged families preparing for marriage to adopt simpler ceremonies and avoid practices that could increase financial pressure on couples and their relatives.
“We call on the families of both the bride and groom, as well as parents, to fear Allah and desist from these practices,” Jatau said.
The commander warned that the directive would be enforced and cautioned individuals and service providers involved in the prohibited activities to comply with the new rules.
“This is our final warning to everyone, especially those engaged in these activities and those who patronise them. They should fear Allah and stop before sanctions are taken against them,” he said.
The announcement adds to ongoing discussions in northern Nigeria about the role of religious authorities in regulating social practices, with supporters often arguing that such measures preserve cultural and religious values, while critics have raised questions about personal freedoms and the scope of enforcement.
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Jatau said the board’s focus was also aimed at encouraging affordable marriage ceremonies, warning that excessive wedding expenses could place unnecessary financial burdens on young couples.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
