The Hisbah Command of the Bauchi State Sharia Commission has issued new rules banning DJs, restricting women from attending male gatherings, and limiting several cultural and social activities across the state.
The directive, which was signed by the Permanent Commissioner of Hisbah, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, on July 16, 2025, comes in response to what the commission described as rising public complaints about indecency and social vices during weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations.
The document titled *‘Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and Other Festivals in Bauchi State’* outlines a long list of activities that are now banned or strictly regulated under Islamic law enforcement.
Key among the new regulations is the total ban on DJs and musical entertainment at social events. The guidelines also forbid the mixing of men and women at any gathering, including dancing between opposite sexes, especially in the presence of children.
Hisbah also announced a restriction on female attendance at events hosted by men, stating that social gatherings must now be gender-segregated. Only women are allowed at female events, and men at male events.
Other banned practices include the use or sale of intoxicating substances, gambling, pornography, prostitution, and birthday celebrations that Hisbah considers immoral. Cultural and traditional events such as *Sharo, Shadi, Garaya*, and *Kauyawa Day* were also prohibited.
In addition, the circular mandates strict dress codes, prohibits the use of abusive or blasphemous language, and requires events to pause during Islamic prayer times. All seating arrangements must be based on gender, in line with the new directives.
“All recreational centers, clubs and cultural organisations must comply with these directives or risk appropriate sanctions,” the circular warned.
Confirming the development, the Commander of Hisbah in Bauchi State, Muhammad Muhammad Bununu, said the circular was officially issued by the Sharia Commission.
“Yes, it is from us. We issued it,” Bununu told reporters when contacted on the matter.
Hisbah, an Islamic moral policing agency, operates in several northern Nigerian states with majority Muslim populations. It enforces Sharia-based moral codes and has the backing of state governments in places like Kano, Bauchi, and Zamfara.
However, its actions often spark national debates over the clash between religious enforcement and constitutional rights such as freedom of expression, association, and movement.
Critics argue that some of Hisbah’s measures are extreme and infringe on civil liberties, especially in states that are part of Nigeria’s secular federation. Supporters, on the other hand, believe the agency plays a vital role in preserving Islamic values and reducing moral decay.
This latest development in Bauchi is already drawing mixed reactions from the public. While some residents support the move, others, especially young people and event organisers, fear it may stifle cultural expression and legitimate social gatherings.
As of now, no official statement has been made by the Bauchi State Government either supporting or rejecting the new guidelines.
