Bauchi Hisbah Bans DJs, Mixed Gatherings, and Cultural Events in New Social Guidelines

The Hisbah Command of the Bauchi State Sharia Commission has issued new regulations governing social events, including weddings, birthdays, and festivals, citing rising complaints of social vices and public disturbances.

In a circular dated July 16, 2025, and signed by Permanent Commissioner Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, Hisbah outlined a series of prohibitions under the document titled “Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and Other Festivals in Bauchi State.”

Among the restrictions are bans on Disk Jockeys (DJs), mixed-gender gatherings, and women’s attendance at male events. The guidelines also prohibit dancing between men and women in the presence of children, the sale or consumption of alcohol, and entry into venues with w+apons.

Other directives include gender-based seating arrangements, suspension of activities during prayer times, observance of traditional dress codes, and strict segregation of events—men at male gatherings and women at female gatherings.

Traditional and cultural activities such as Sharo, Shadi, Garaya, and Kauyawa Day were also outlawed, along with DJ entertainment, gala nights, and Aloba. Gambling, prostitution, p@rnography, and birthdays considered to encourage imm+rality were equally banned.

“All recreational centers, clubs, and cultural organisations must comply with these directives or face sanctions,” the circular warned.

Confirming the development, Bauchi Hisbah Commander Muhammad Muhammad Bununu said: “Yes, it is from us. We issued it.”