The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has announced a sweeping ban on several wedding and social gathering practices across the state, declaring them inconsistent with Islamic teachings. The directive, which takes immediate effect, prohibits the use of disc jockeys (DJs), mixed-gender entertainment, the popular marriage introduction ceremony known as “Na Gani In So extravagant bridal gifts, and other activities considered contrary to Islamic principles.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Commander of the Sokoto State Hisbah Board, Malam Usman Abdullahi Jatau, during a press briefing in Sokoto. He explained that the new measures are part of efforts to preserve the state’s religious and moral values and to ensure that marriage ceremonies conform to the teachings of Islam.
According to Jatau, the practice of Na Gani In So, in which a prospective groom presents assorted gifts—including soft drinks, bottled water, biscuits, sweets, kola nuts and other items—to the bride’s family before marriage, has no basis in Islamic tradition.
He described the custom as one of several innovations (bid’ah) that have gradually become part of wedding ceremonies despite lacking support in the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
We declare that these innovations, which are contrary to the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), have negative consequences for marriages conducted in such a manner because they depart from the teachings of the Prophet,” Jatau stated.
Beyond banning DJs and the “Na Gani In So” ceremony, the Hisbah Board also outlawed several other practices commonly seen during weddings and public celebrations.
The board prohibited:
- Mixed-gender entertainment at wedding receptions and social events.
- The use of Wazigidi music during ceremonies.
- Loudspeakers mounted on commercial tricycles for public entertainment.
- Women sitting beside tricycle riders.
- Hairstyles considered indecent among children and youths.
- Excessive spending on bridal gifts, popularly known as lefe.
According to the Hisbah commander, these practices promote extravagance, encourage moral decadence and impose unnecessary financial burdens on families preparing for marriage.
Jatau urged intending couples, parents and guardians to embrace modesty and simplicity in marriage arrangements, stressing that Islam encourages affordable and uncomplicated weddings.
He noted that the growing culture of lavish ceremonies and expensive bridal gifts has made marriage increasingly difficult for many young people, forcing some families into debt and financial hardship.
“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.
He further advised families to reduce the cost of marriage by avoiding unnecessary expenses on bridal gifts and elaborate ceremonies, arguing that simpler weddings would strengthen families and promote social stability
The Hisbah Board warned that the new regulations would not be treated as mere advice but would be strictly enforced throughout the state.
Jatau issued what he described as a final warning to individuals involved in organising or patronising prohibited activities, saying violators would face sanctions.
This is our final warning to everyone, especially those engaged in these activities and those who patronize them. They should fear Allah and stop before sanctions are taken against them, he warned.
The latest directive is part of the Sokoto State government’s broader efforts, through the Hisbah Board, to regulate public conduct and ensure social activities align with Islamic values.
Hisbah authorities have consistently advocated modest wedding ceremonies, discouraging practices they believe encourage wasteful spending or conflict with Islamic teachings.
The board expressed confidence that compliance with the new guidelines would reduce the financial pressure associated with marriage, promote moral discipline, and preserve the religious values of the predominantly Muslim state.
Residents, intending couples and event organisers have therefore been urged to comply with the new regulations to avoid penalties as the Hisbah Board begins enforcement across Sokoto State.
