Muslim leaders in Jalingo have banned traditional wedding parties, warning violators will be denied religious rites and clerics punished for non-compliance.
Muslims in Jalingo, Taraba State, have been barred from organising wedding parties such as Kauyawa day (Villagers’ Days) and Ajo parties, following a joint resolution by the Muslim Council, imams, and traditional rulers.
The decision was announced during last Friday’s sermons across Jummat mosques, with Imam Tajudeen Nuhu of Mayo Gwoi Jummat Mosque conveying the ruling on behalf of the council.
“Henceforth, it is forbidden for any household to hold ‘Kauyawa,’ parties, ‘Ajo,’ or any form of celebration during weddings here in Jalingo,” Imam Nuhu declared.
The council warned that households violating the order will be denied nikah (marriage contracts), funeral prayers, and Islamic lectures at weddings or naming ceremonies. Clerics who disregard the directive face removal.
Authorities endorsed the ban, which aims to instill discipline and “fear of God” within the Muslim community, according to the council.