The Rano Emirate Council in Kano State has announced a ban on Western-style DJ music performances at weddings and other social gatherings within the emirate. The move is part of efforts to promote proper upbringing and preserve the moral values of the community, the council said.
The Waziri of Rano, Alaramma Kabir Sani, disclosed the decision during a youth program organised by the Rano Local Government Shariah Islamic Council. The event took place at the palace of the Emir of Rano and was attended by community leaders, youths, and stakeholders from the local government area.
Speaking at the event, the Waziri highlighted that the council, together with local authorities and security stakeholders, agreed on the ban due to the negative effects of Western-style DJ music on the moral fabric of society.
“Western-style music encourages behaviors that are not compatible with our traditions and Islamic values. It is affecting the upbringing of our youths and the peace of our communities,” he said.
The statement issued on Saturday by the Rano Zonal Information Officer, Abdullahi Musa Gyadi Gyadi, explained that the ban is not limited to weddings but extends to other social events where such music is commonly played. The initiative is aimed at promoting cultural and religious values while curbing immoral practices among young people.
The Waziri also raised concerns about the misuse of mobile phones among youths. He noted that unrestricted access to social media and entertainment apps has contributed to declining moral standards and a detachment from cultural and religious values.
District Head of Rano, Adda’u Isah, represented by Balarabe Adda’u Isah, expressed appreciation for the Shariah Council’s initiative. He pledged the Emirate’s full support for any activities designed to promote Islamic values and moral conduct in the community. “We are committed to ensuring that our youths grow up with strong values and respect for our traditions,” he said.
The Chairman of the Rano Local Government Islamic Shari’a Council, Idris Garba Rano, stated that the lecture and awareness program would be replicated across all 13 district areas under the council. He also urged parents to take active roles in their children’s upbringing.
“Parents must supervise their children closely and guide them in line with our cultural and religious teachings. This is the only way to safeguard the future of our community,” Idris Garba said.
The decision by the Rano Emirate follows similar moves in other parts of northern Nigeria, where local authorities have sought to regulate entertainment forms considered inconsistent with Islamic and cultural values. Traditional and religious leaders in these regions often play a central role in monitoring social activities and promoting adherence to local norms.
While Western-style DJ music is popular among youths in many urban areas, some community leaders have expressed concerns that such music encourages late-night gatherings, inappropriate dancing, and the adoption of foreign lifestyles that conflict with local traditions. In the Rano Emirate, where Islamic values are strongly emphasized, the leadership believes that controlling the type of music played at social events will help curb these influences.
The ban is also expected to be enforced with the support of local authorities and security agencies. Event organisers and families planning weddings or parties will need to ensure that entertainment aligns with the guidelines set by the Emirate Council. Failure to comply may attract warnings, fines, or other penalties.
The council’s approach highlights the broader issue of youth development and moral guidance in Kano State and northern Nigeria. With growing access to smartphones, social media, and global entertainment trends, local authorities face increasing challenges in maintaining cultural identity and promoting healthy social behavior among young people.
By implementing this ban, the Rano Emirate hopes to encourage parents, guardians, and community leaders to actively participate in raising disciplined and morally upright youths. It also seeks to ensure that cultural and religious practices are respected during celebrations and social interactions.
Officials have assured residents that the measure is not meant to discourage celebrations but to ensure that events are conducted in a way that reflects the emirate’s values. Traditional ceremonies, weddings, and other social gatherings can continue, provided that entertainment choices comply with the set guidelines.
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