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The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has banned the use of disc jockeys (DJs), mixed-gender entertainment and lavish bridal gifts at wedding ceremonies across the state.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, the Commander of the State Hisbah Board, Malam Usman Abdullahi Jatau, described the practices as un-Islamic innovations, saying the restrictions are intended to uphold the state’s religious and moral values in line with Islamic teachings.
The board also prohibited the use of Wazigidi music at social events, the use of loudspeakers mounted on tricycles, women sitting beside tricycle riders, what it described as indecent hairstyles among children and youths, and excessive spending on bridal gifts, popularly known as lefe.
Jatau further announced a ban on the marriage introduction practice known as Na Gani In So, in which prospective grooms present gifts such as soft drinks, bottled water, biscuits, sweets and kola nuts to the bride’s family. He said the custom has no basis in 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.
He urged intending couples, parents, and family members to embrace modesty in marriage ceremonies and to avoid practices that impose unnecessary financial burdens on families.
“We call on the families of both the bride and groom, as well as parents, to fear Allah and desist from these practices,” he said.
Jatau warned that the board would strictly enforce the new directives and sanction anyone found violating them in Sokoto.
“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.
