The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has announced a statewide ban on several wedding-related customs and social activities, saying the affected practices are inconsistent with Islamic teachings and the moral values upheld in the state.

The new directives, which take immediate effect, prohibit the exchange of elaborate marriage gifts, the use of disc jockeys (DJs) at ceremonies, mixed-gender entertainment gatherings and the performance of the traditional music genre known as Wazigidi.

The Commander of the Hisbah Board, Usman Abdullahi Jatau, announced the measures during a press briefing at the board’s headquarters in Sokoto.

Jatau said the board had also outlawed the practice known as Na Gani In So, a pre-marriage custom in which prospective grooms present items such as soft drinks, biscuits, sweets and kola nuts to the bride’s family.

According to him, the prohibited customs amount to bid’ah (religious innovations) that are contrary to the teachings and traditions of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He maintained that the practices often place unnecessary financial pressure on intending couples and their families, sometimes resulting in debt and other social challenges.

The board also announced additional restrictions aimed at promoting public morality. These include a ban on installing loudspeakers or high-powered sound systems on commercial tricycles, popularly known as Keke Napep, as well as prohibiting women from sitting beside tricycle riders.

Jatau further disclosed that the board would enforce restrictions on hairstyles considered inappropriate for children and young people and discourage excessive spending on bridal gifts, commonly referred to as lefe.

He said the measures form part of the board’s efforts to preserve the state’s religious and cultural values while promoting modesty and responsible social conduct.

The Hisbah Commander called on traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to support the implementation of the directives, warning that the board would take action against anyone found violating the new regulations.

He also urged event organisers, DJs, parents and intending couples to comply with the directives by conducting marriages in accordance with Islamic teachings, stressing that simpler wedding ceremonies would help families avoid unnecessary financial burdens and other social problems associated with extravagant celebrations.