Bauchi Hisbah Bans DJs, Restricts Women From Male Social Gatherings

The Hisbah Command of the Bauchi State Sharia Commission has introduced strict new rules for social gatherings, including a ban on Disk Jockeys (DJs) and prohibiting women from attending male-only events.

The announcement, dated July 16, 2025, was signed by the Permanent Commissioner of Hisbah, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah. It cited rising public complaints over social vices and disturbances at weddings, birthdays, and other ceremonies as the reason for the regulations.

Outlined in the document titled ‘Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and Other Festivals in Bauchi State,’ the new rules include prohibitions on: mixing of sexes, dancing with the opposite sex in the presence of children, sale or consumption of intoxicants, and entry of armed individuals into event venues.

Additional directives cover gender-based seating, suspension of activities during prayer times, and strict adherence to traditional dress codes. The circular also bans abusive or blasphemous language, mandates segregation of events by gender, and prohibits traditional and cultural activities such as Sharo, Shadi, Garaya, and Kauyawa Day. Entertainment options including DJs, Gala, and Aloba are also outlawed.

Further prohibitions extend to gambling, prostitution, pornography, and birthday celebrations deemed to promote immorality.

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

Confirming the release of the guidelines, Hisbah Commander Muhammad Muhammad Bununu stated: “Yes, it is from us. We issued it.”