The Bauchi State Hisbah Command has rolled out strict new rules governing social gatherings, including a ban on DJs, women attending male-organized events, and mixed-gender celebrations.
The directive was contained in a statement signed by the Permanent Commissioner, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, on July 16, 2025. The document, titled “Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and Other Festivals in Bauchi State,” cited rising public complaints over “social vices” and disturbances during weddings and birthdays as justification for the restrictions.
According to the guidelines, the Hisbah Command stated it “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 further outlawed gambling, prostitution “in all its ramifications”, and other acts it described as immoral across hotels, clubs, houses, and recreational centres.
It 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.”
Confirming the authenticity of the letter, the Commander of Hisbah, Muhammad Muhammad Bununu, said: “Yes, it is from us. We issued it.”
