The Hisbah Command of the Bauchi State Sharia’h Commission has issued strict guidelines regulating social gatherings in the state, further ordering adherence to the guidelines.

In a statement issued by the Permanent Commissioner Hisbah, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, dated July 16, 2025, and titled “Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and other Festivals in Bauchi State”, the command said that there have been complaints from the general public on the increase of social vices and the breach of public peace during marriage ceremonies and birthdays.

The statement said that Hisbah Command “is left with no option but to set the following guidelines: Mixing up the opposite sex is highly prohibited. Dancing with the opposite sex amidst infants and children is highly prohibited.

“Buying and selling of toxicants of any kind and their consumption are highly prohibited. A person in possession of weapon(s) (of any nature) should not be granted entrance.

“Seating arrangement has to be in accordance with gender considerations. Any act capable of inciting the general public is prohibited.

“All activities must be suspended during the stipulated prayer times. Traditional dressing code should be adhered to. Using blasphemy or abusive language against an individual or constituted authority is prohibited.

“All activities organised by females should only be patronised by females and vice versa.

“The Fulani traditional activity known as Sharo or Shadi and Garaya is prohibited. Cultural traditional activities known as Kauyawa day, DJ, Gala, Aloba, etc, are prohibited.”

The command also prohibited gambling of any nature, saying prostitution in all its ramifications and other immoral acts are equally prohibited in all centres, clubs, hotels, houses and recreational centres.

The statement added, “Exhibition of pornographic films either privately or in public and in all places is equally prohibited. Any birthday ceremony in promotion of immorality is prohibited.

“The guidelines have to be strictly adhered to by all recreational centres, clubs and other cultural organisations or outfits.

“Failure to comply with the foregoing guidelines, Hibah Command will take appropriate action accordingly.”

When contacted on the phone, the Commander of Hisbah, Muhammad Muhammad Bununu, confirmed the letter, saying that: “Yes, it is from us. We issued it.” (The Guardian)