Sokoto Hisbah Board bans wedding gifts, DJs, and mixed-gender events

The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has enacted a sweeping ban on several social customs and activities, asserting they violate Islamic principles and moral values. The directive, effective immediately, prohibits extravagant wedding gifts, the use of DJs, and mixed-gender entertainment events across the state.

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We declare that these innovations, 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.

Usman Abdullahi Jatau, Commander of the Hisbah Board, announced the measures, specifically targeting "Na Gani In So," a pre-wedding custom where gifts are presented to the bride's family. The board also banned "Wazigidi," a traditional music genre popular in Northern Nigeria, stating these practices are innovations contrary to the Prophet Muhammad's teachings and can lead to financial strain and debt for families.

"We declare that these innovations, 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 stated. He urged families to "fear Allah and desist from these practices."

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We call on the families of both the bride and groom, as well as parents, to fear Allah and desist from these practices.

Further restrictions include a ban on loudspeakers on tricycles, known as Keke Napep, and outlawing women from sitting beside tricycle riders. The board also plans to enforce bans on hairstyles deemed inappropriate for youth and excessive spending on bridal gifts, referred to as "lefe." Jatau explained these measures aim to strengthen public morality and preserve the state's religious and cultural heritage.

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This is our final warning to everyone, especially those engaged in these activities and those who patronise them.

The Hisbah Board has enlisted community leaders to aid in enforcing these standards and warned of decisive action against non-compliance. Jatau issued a final warning to event organizers, DJs, and residents to cease prohibited activities, urging them to simplify bridal gifts and conduct marriages according to Islamic tradition to avoid debt and hardship.

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We call on parents and intending couples to simplify bridal gifts, avoid unnecessary showmanship, and conduct marriages according to the Sunnah so that husbands, wives, and their families can be spared debt, hardship, theft, and other unlawful acts committed in the course of organising weddings.