By Anas Abbas
The Bauchi State Hisbah Command has introduced a set of new regulations governing weddings, birthdays, and other social gatherings across the state.
In a statement signed by the Permanent Commissioner of Hisbah, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, the Sharia enforcement agency said the guidelines were prompted by rising public complaints over social vices and breaches of peace at events.
Titled “Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and Other Festivals in Bauchi State,” the document outlines several restrictions.
These include prohibition of male and female mingling, as well as opposite-sex, dancing in the presence of children, ban on the sale or consumption of alcohol and other intoxicants disallowing entry of individuals carrying weapons into event venues, gender-based seating arrangements and suspension of activities during prayer times, compulsory adherence to traditional dress codes.
The circular further prohibits DJs and musical entertainment at events, as well as cultural festivals such as Sharo, Shadi, Garaya, Kauyawa Day, Gala, and Aloba.
It also forbids the use of abusive or blasphemous language, gambling, prostitution, pornography, and birthday parties considered “immoral.”
Hisbah directed that all recreational centers, clubs, and cultural organizations comply with the order or face sanctions.