The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has announced an immediate ban on several wedding and social gathering practices, declaring them contrary to Islamic teachings and moral values.
Among the banned practices are the popular marriage introduction custom known as “Na Gani In So,” where suitors present assorted gifts such as soft drinks, bottled water, biscuits, sweets and kola nuts to a bride’s family, as well as the use of DJs and Wazigidi music at ceremonies.
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 (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.
“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,” he said.
Jatau urged parents, intending couples and their families to comply with the directive.
“We call on the families of both the bride and groom, as well as parents, to fear Allah and desist from these practices.”
Warning that the board would enforce the ban, he added, “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 also advised couples to simplify marriage arrangements and avoid extravagant bridal gifts to reduce debt and hardship.
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