The Hisbah Command of the Bauchi State Sharia Commission has rolled out new guidelines regulating social events, banning Disk Jockeys, DJs, and restricting women from attending male gatherings in the state.

In a statement signed by the Permanent Commissioner, Hisbah, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, and dated July 16, 2025, the Commission said the move followed growing complaints from the public about rising social vices and breaches of public peace during weddings, birthdays and other ceremonies.

The document, titled ‘Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and Other Festivals in Bauchi State’, listed a series of prohibitions including mixing of the opposite sex, dancing with the opposite sex in the presence of children, sale or consumption of intoxicants, and entry of persons with weapons into venues.

Other directives include: Gender-based seating arrangements, suspension of activities during prayer times, and strict adherence to traditional dress codes.

The rest are: Ban on abusive or blasphemous language against individuals or authorities, segregation of social events — only women are allowed at female gatherings, and men at male gatherings.

Also outlawed are traditional and cultural activities such as Sharo, Shadi, Garaya, Kauyawa Day, as well as DJ entertainment, Gala, and Aloba.

Gambling, prostitution, pornography, and any birthday celebration deemed to promote immorality were equally prohibited.

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

When contacted, the Commander of Hisbah, Muhammad Muhammad Bununu, confirmed the issuance of the circular, saying: “Yes, it is from us. We issued it.”