The Bauchi State Government has dismissed as false a viral video claiming Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed approved a fixed dowry of N1,500 for divorced women in the state.

The video, widely shared on Facebook and TikTok, also claimed the traditional ruler of Zar, the Gum Zar, had directed residents to comply with the alleged policy. A separate social media claim alleged that women who had children outside marriage would attract a N3,000 dowry, while unmarried women would be married off to drivers free of charge.

Commissioner for Religious Affairs and Societal Reorientation, Muhammad Binni Abdulkadir, described the claims as false and fabricated, saying the state government never issued any such directive or policy.

He urged residents to disregard the video and avoid sharing unverified information capable of causing unnecessary tension.

He said Governor Mohammed has consistently respected the religious beliefs and cultural values of Bauchi residents since assuming office, and warned that spreading falsehoods could undermine the state’s peace and reputation. (The Nation)