The Hisbah Command of the Bauchi State Sharia Commission has rolled out fresh guidelines aimed at curbing rising cases of social vices during weddings, birthdays, and other festivities across the state.
In a circular dated July 16, 2025, and signed by the Permanent Commissioner, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, the Commission said the directives followed “growing complaints from the public about rising immorality and breaches of public peace” at social events.
The document, titled “Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and Other Festivals in Bauchi State”, outlined a series of restrictions. These include: prohibition of mixing between men and women, dancing with the opposite sex in the presence of children, sale or consumption of alcohol and intoxicants, as well as the entry of armed persons into event venues.
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Other rules mandated gender-based seating arrangements, suspension of activities during prayer times, and strict compliance with traditional dress codes. The circular also banned the use of abusive or blasphemous language, and ordered strict segregation at social gatherings, with men and women holding separate events.
In a major clampdown on cultural activities, Hisbah further outlawed traditional events such as Sharo, Shadi, Garaya, Kauyawa Day, as well as modern entertainment like DJ services, Gala nights, and Aloba shows.
Gambling, prostitution, pornography, and any birthday celebration deemed immoral were also declared prohibited.
“All recreational centers, clubs and cultural organisations must comply with these directives, or risk appropriate sanctions,” the Commission warned.
