The Muslim Council of Taraba State has announced a ban on all forms of wedding parties within Jalingo, the state capital, citing growing concerns over moral conduct, excessive spending, and social unrest linked to such gatherings.
In a statement released on Friday, the council explained that the decision followed months of consultations with Islamic scholars, community leaders, and youth representatives across the state. According to the council, wedding celebrations in recent years have increasingly deviated from religious and cultural values, often marked by loud music, alcohol consumption, and what it described as “immoral behaviour” that contravenes Islamic teachings.
The Chairman of the Muslim Council in Taraba, Alhaji Ibrahim Maikudi, said the measure is intended to restore modesty and ensure that marriages are conducted in line with Islamic principles. “Islam encourages simplicity in marriage. Unfortunately, we have witnessed a trend where wedding ceremonies have become occasions of wastefulness and social vices. This directive is to protect our faith, our children, and the moral fibre of our society,” he said.
The council directed that henceforth, weddings in Jalingo should be conducted at mosques or family homes in a modest manner, without the large gatherings, entertainment, and receptions that have become popular.
Reactions to the announcement have been mixed. While some residents and religious adherents welcomed the move as a step toward preserving cultural and religious discipline, others expressed concern that it infringes on personal freedoms and social traditions. A resident, Aisha Bello, noted that wedding receptions are not only moments of celebration but also avenues for families to strengthen social ties. “Banning parties entirely may not sit well with everyone. What the council should focus on is moderation, not a total ban,” she said.
Civil society groups in the state have also weighed in, with some warning that the directive could spark tension if imposed without proper dialogue with the wider community.
It remains unclear whether the state government will formally enforce the council’s decision. However, the announcement is expected to influence how Muslim families in Taraba approach marriage ceremonies in the coming months.
Observers say the ban reflects a broader debate across northern Nigeria, where religious and community leaders have often clashed with modern social practices, particularly those involving weddings, entertainment, and public celebrations.
