The Hisbah Command of the Bauchi State Sharia Commission has issued new regulations governing social events across the state, banning Disk Jockeys (DJs) and prohibiting women from attending male gatherings.

 

The directives, contained in a circular dated July 16, 2025, and signed by the Permanent Commissioner of Hisbah, Barr. Aminu Balarabe Isah, followed what the Commission described as “growing complaints from the public over rising social vices and breaches of peace” during weddings, birthdays, and other ceremonies.

 

The document, titled “Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and Other Festivals in Bauchi State”, outlines a wide range of restrictions. These include:

 

Prohibition of mixing between men and women.

 

Ban on dancing with the opposite sex in the presence of children.

 

Prohibition of sale or consumption of alcohol and intoxicants.

 

Ban on entry of persons with weapons into event venues.

 

Enforcement of gender-based seating arrangements.

 

Suspension of all activities during prayer times.

 

Mandatory adherence to traditional dress codes.

 

Prohibition of abusive or blasphemous language.

 

Segregation of events: only women at female gatherings, and men at male gatherings.

 

 

The Commission also outlawed certain traditional and cultural activities such as Sharo, Shadi, Garaya, Kauyawa Day, as well as modern entertainment forms like DJ performances, Gala, and Aloba.

 

Gambling, prostitution, pornography, and birthday celebrations deemed “immoral” were equally prohibited.

 

“All recreational centers, clubs, and cultural organisations must comply with these directives or risk appropriate sanctions,” the circular warned.

 

Confirming the circular, Hisbah Commander Muhammad Muhammad Bununu told journalists: “Yes, it is from us. We issued it.”