Sokoto Hisbah bans DJs, mixed-gender entertainment at weddings

The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has announced an immediate ban on several wedding and social gathering practices, including the use of DJs, the popular marriage introduction ceremony known as “Na Gani In So,” mixed-gender entertainment and extravagant bridal gifts, describing them as un-Islamic innovations.

The board also prohibited the use of Wazigidi music at ceremonies, 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.

Announcing the directive during a press briefing in Sokoto on Tuesday, the Commander of the State Hisbah Board, Malam Usman Abdullahi Jatau, said the measures were aimed at safeguarding the state’s religious and moral values in line with Islamic teachings.

According to him, the banned marriage introduction practice, commonly called “Na Gani In So,” in which prospective grooms present assorted gifts such as soft drinks, bottled water, biscuits, sweets and kola nuts to the bride’s family, has no basis in the teachings of Islam.

“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 simplicity in marriage ceremonies and avoid practices capable of placing 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.

The Hisbah commander warned that the board would strictly enforce the directive against violators.

“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,” Jatau warned.

He further advised prospective couples to reduce the cost of marriage by avoiding excessive expenditure on lefe, noting that lavish wedding ceremonies often lead to debt and hardship for young families.