Sokoto Hisbah Bans Wedding DJs, ‘Na Gani In So’ Gifts and Other Social Practices

The Sokoto State Hisbah Board has introduced a sweeping ban on several wedding and social practices, saying they are inconsistent with Islamic teachings and the moral values the state seeks to uphold.

The directive, which takes immediate effect, outlaws the popular marriage introduction tradition known as “Na Gani In So,” where prospective grooms present items such as cartons of soft drinks, bottled water, biscuits, sweets, and kola nuts to the bride’s family. The board also banned the use of DJs and Wazigidi music at weddings and other ceremonies.

Announcing the decision at the Hisbah headquarters in Sokoto, the board’s Commander, Malam Usman Abdullahi Jatau, said the measures were aimed at promoting modesty and encouraging marriages that align with the teachings of Islam.

In addition to the wedding-related restrictions, the board prohibited the use of loudspeakers and high-powered sound systems mounted on tricycles (Keke Napep), women riding beside tricycle operators, mixed-gender entertainment gatherings, hairstyles it considers indecent for children and young people, and what it described as excessive spending on bridal gifts, commonly known as lefe.

Jatau stated that these practices constitute religious innovations (bid’ah) that depart from the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), adding that such customs undermine the values Islam promotes regarding marriage and social conduct.

He urged parents, intending couples, and their families to abandon the prohibited practices and instead organize marriages in accordance with Islamic principles.

The Hisbah commander also warned that the board would actively enforce the new directives and intervene whenever violations are reported.

He further called on traditional and community leaders across Sokoto State to support the campaign by encouraging moral discipline and proper guidance within their communities.

Describing the announcement as a final warning, Jatau advised event organizers, DJs, and members of the public involved in the banned activities to discontinue them immediately or risk facing sanctions.

He concluded by encouraging families to simplify marriage ceremonies, reduce unnecessary expenses on bridal gifts, and avoid extravagant displays that could lead to financial hardship, debt, or other social problems.