Hisbah Bans DJs, Restricts Women From Male Gatherings in Bauchi

The Hisbah Command of the Bauchi State Sharia Commission has introduced sweeping restrictions on social events in the state, banning Disk Jockeys (DJs) and prohibiting women from attending male gatherings.

In a circular dated July 16, 2025, and signed by the Commission’s Permanent Commissioner, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, Hisbah said the measures were in response to public complaints over “rising social vices and breaches of public peace” at weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations.

The document, titled Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and Other Festivals in Bauchi State, outlines several prohibitions, including:

Mixing of men and women, and dancing between opposite sexes in the presence of children.

Sale or consumption of alcohol and other intoxicants.

Carrying of weapons at event venues.

Use of abusive or blasphemous language against individuals or authorities.

The guidelines also mandate gender-based seating, suspension of activities during prayer times, and adherence to traditional dress codes. Social events are to remain segregated, with only women permitted at female gatherings and only men at male gatherings.

Traditional and cultural festivities such as **Sharo, Shadi, Garaya, Kauyawa Day**, along with DJ entertainment, gala nights, and stage shows like *Aloba* have also been outlawed. Additionally, gambling, prostitution, pornography, and birthday parties “deemed to promote immorality” are banned.

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

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