Sokoto Hisbah Bans Popular Wedding Practices Over Religious Concerns

(Hisbah Board. Photo by Mac Daniel’s Blog)

A number of wedding and social gathering customs have been immediately banned by the Sokoto State Hisbah Board because they are seen to be against Islamic morality and teachings.

The famous marriage introduction ceremony known as “Na Gani In So,” in which suitors give various presents to a bride’s family, including soft beverages, bottled water, biscuits, candies, and kola nuts, as well as the usage of DJs and Wazigidi music at ceremonies, are among the prohibited behaviors.

The board also outlawed the use of loudspeakers on tricycles, women sitting beside tricycle riders, mixed-gender entertainment gatherings, what it described as indecent hairstyles for children and youths, and excessive spending on bridal gifts, known locally as lefe.

Addressing journalists in Sokoto, the Commander of the State Hisbah Board, Malam Usman Abdullahi Jatau, said the measures were introduced to preserve the state’s religious and cultural values.

Describing such practices as innovations contrary to the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad, which he said carried negative consequences for any marriage conducted in that manner since it departs from the teachings of the Prophet.

He urged parents, intending couples and their families to comply with the directive, calling on the families of both bride and groom, as well as parents generally, to fear Allah and desist from the practices.

Warning that the board would enforce the ban, he described the statement as a final warning to everyone involved in or patronising such activities, urging them to fear Allah and stop before sanctions are imposed.

He further advised couples to simplify marriage arrangements and avoid extravagant bridal gifts in order to reduce debt and hardship.