The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has announced an immediate ban on several practices associated with weddings and other social gatherings, saying the affected activities are inconsistent with Islamic teachings and the moral values of the state.
The announcement was made on Monday by the Commander of the Sokoto State Hisbah Board, Malam Usman Abdullahi Jatau, during a briefing with journalists.
According to Jatau, the prohibition covers the marriage introduction custom popularly known as “Na Gani In So,” where a prospective groom presents assorted gifts, including cartons of soft drinks, bottled water, biscuits, sweets and kola nuts, to the family of the bride-to-be. The board also banned the use of DJs and Wazigidi music at ceremonies.
Other practices affected by the directive include the installation of loudspeakers and high-powered sound systems on tricycles (Keke Napep), women sitting beside tricycle riders, mixed-gender entertainment gatherings, hairstyles the board described as indecent for children and youths, and excessive spending on bridal gifts, locally known as lefe.
Jatau said the measures were introduced to promote morality and safeguard the religious and cultural values of the state, maintaining that the prohibited practices are innovations (bid’ah) that contradict the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
He stated that such practices could have negative consequences for marriages conducted in that manner because they depart from the teachings of the Prophet.
The Hisbah commander urged intending couples, parents and members of both families to fear Allah and refrain from engaging in the banned practices.
He added that the board would continue to enforce the directive and intervene whenever the prohibited activities are observed or reported.
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