The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has banned the use of DJs, Wazigidi music and the exchange of certain marriage introduction gifts at weddings, saying the practices are against Islamic teachings and moral values.
The board said the directive, which takes immediate effect, also prohibits several other activities it considers un-Islamic during weddings and social gatherings across the state.
Speaking with journalists on Monday, the Commander of the Sokoto State Hisbah Board, Malam Usman Abdullahi Jatau, said the practice known as “Na Gani In So” had been outlawed.
According to him, the custom, in which a prospective groom presents items such as cartons of soft drinks, bottled water, biscuits, sweets and kola nuts to the bride’s family during marriage introduction, is not in line with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The board also banned the use of DJs and Wazigidi music at ceremonies, the mounting of loudspeakers and heavy sound systems on tricycles, women sitting beside tricycle riders, mixed-gender entertainment gatherings, hairstyles it described as indecent for children and youths, and excessive spending on bridal gifts, popularly known as lefe.
Jatau said the measures were introduced to promote morality and 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.
He urged parents, intending couples and their families to comply with the directive and avoid practices prohibited by the board.
“We call on the families of both the bride and groom, as well as parents, to fear Allah and desist from these practices. The board will carry out its responsibilities whenever these prohibited practices are taking place, especially when we are called upon to intervene,” Jatau added.
