The Bauchi State Hisbah has issued new guidelines regulating contact with opposite sex in social gatherings in the state.
In a statement issued by the Permanent Commissioner of the State’s Shariah Commission, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, Hisbah said there have been complaints from the general public on the increase of social vices and the breach of public peace during marriage ceremonies and birthdays.
The statement titled “Guidelines Governing the Conduct of Marriage Ceremonies and other Festivals in Bauchi State”, noted that it “is left with no option but to set the following guidelines: Mixing up the opposite sex is highly prohibited. Dancing with the opposite sex amidst infants and children is highly prohibited.
“Buying and selling of toxicants of any kind and their consumption are highly prohibited. A person in possession of weapon(s) (of any nature) should not be granted entrance.
“Seating arrangement has to be in accordance with gender considerations. Any act capable of inciting the general public is prohibited.
“All activities must be suspended during the stipulated prayer times. Traditional dressing code should be adhered to. Using blasphemy or abusive language against an individual or constituted authority is prohibited.
“All activities organised by females should only be patronised by females and vice versa.
“The Fulani traditional activity known as Sharo or Shadi and Garaya is prohibited. Cultural traditional activities known as Kauyawa day, DJ, Gala, Aloba, etc, are prohibited.”
The statement added that, “Exhibition of pornographic films either privately or in public and in all places is equally prohibited. Any birthday ceremony in promotion of immorality is prohibited.
“The guidelines have to be strictly adhered to by all recreational centres, clubs and other cultural organisations or outfits.
“Failure to comply with the foregoing guidelines, Hibah Command will take appropriate action accordingly.”
