Bauchi Hisbah Bans DJs, Mixed-Gender Dancing in Crackdown on Social Gatherings

New Sharia guidelines spark outrage over restrictions on social life and women’s rights in Bauchi State

Bauchi, Nigeria — August 28, 2025


The Bauchi State Hisbah Command has imposed strict new rules on social gatherings, banning DJs, mixed-gender dancing, and restricting women from attending male-only events. The directive, issued under the Sharia Commission, has drawn widespread criticism from residents, rights groups, and cultural associations who argue that the policy tramples on personal freedoms and economic livelihoods.

A circular dated July 16, 2025, signed by Hisbah Permanent Commissioner Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, introduced the guidelines under the banner: “Regulation Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and Other Festivals in Bauchi State.”

According to Hisbah, the rules were necessary to curb what it described as “increasing social vices” and public disorder at weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations.

The new rules prohibit the use of DJs and music entertainment at social functions, as well as traditional festivals such as Sharo, Shadi, Garaya, Kauyawa Day, and Aloba. Women are barred from attending male-only gatherings, and vice versa, while dancing between men and women in the presence of children is banned.

The directive also mandates gender-segregated seating, bans the sale of alcohol and intoxicants, outlaws birthday parties, and prohibits armed individuals from attending events. Organizers are required to suspend activities during prayer times and enforce modest dress codes.

The Hisbah said cultural associations, recreational centers, and event organizers must comply or face sanctions. Confirming the development, Hisbah Commander Muhammad Muhammad Bununu told reporters:

“Yes, it is from us. We issued it.”

Many Bauchi residents expressed frustration, saying the rules go too far. A young DJ, who spoke anonymously, lamented:

“This is my only source of income. If weddings and parties can’t hire us, how are we supposed to survive?”

A women’s rights activist in Bauchi described the directive as “deeply discriminatory,” arguing it restricts women’s freedom of association.

“Banning women from gatherings is not just about religion — it’s about silencing women and keeping them out of public spaces,” she said.

Some conservative residents welcomed the move, saying it will restore morality and discipline in society. A cleric in Bauchi told local media:

“These rules are for our own good. The youth are being carried away by indecent practices. This will protect our culture.”

Cultural analysts and event organizers warned that the ban could cripple the state’s entertainment and hospitality industry. Weddings and traditional festivals, they noted, are major drivers of local business for tailors, caterers, decorators, and musicians.

“What looks like a moral regulation is actually an economic blow to thousands of families,” said a Bauchi-based social analyst.

The Hisbah, which enforces Islamic law in northern Nigeria, has previously clamped down on alcohol, nightclubs, and public celebrations. However, critics argue that such interventions often deepen social divides and limit the rights of women and youth, while doing little to address insecurity or poverty in the region.

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