The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has announced an immediate ban on several wedding and social gathering practices, including the use of disc jockeys (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, Commander of the State Hisbah Board, Malam Usman Abdullahi Jatau, said the measures were introduced to protect the state’s religious and moral values in accordance with Islamic teachings.
Jatau said the “Na Gani In So” marriage introduction practice, which involves prospective grooms presenting gifts such as soft drinks, bottled water, biscuits, sweets and kola nuts to the bride’s family, has no foundation in Islamic teachings.
“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.
The Hisbah commander urged intending couples, parents and families to embrace simplicity in marriage ceremonies and avoid practices that create unnecessary financial pressure.
“We call on the families of both the bride and groom, as well as parents, to fear Allah and desist from these practices,” Jatau said.
He warned that the board would begin strict enforcement of the directive and take action against individuals who violate the new measures.
“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 said.
Jatau also advised prospective couples to reduce marriage expenses by avoiding excessive spending on lefe, noting that lavish ceremonies often leave young families burdened with debt and financial hardship.
