The Muslim Council of Taraba State has prohibited all forms of wedding parties in Jalingo, following consultations with Islamic clerics, traditional rulers, and local authorities.
The directive, announced during last Friday’s sermons in all Jummat mosques, targets gatherings such as “Kauyawa” and “Ajo” parties, which the council says attract large crowds of youths who dance late into the night in tattered clothing.
Imam Tajudeen Nuhu, Chief Imam of Mayo Gwoi Jummat Mosque, relayed the decision on behalf of the council: “Henceforth, it is forbidden for any household to hold ‘Kauyawa,’ ‘Ajo,’ or any form of celebration during weddings here in Jalingo.”
The council warned that households defying the ban will face stiff consequences. “Defaulters face stiff sanctions: no imam will conduct their Nikah (marriage contract). Worse still, funeral prayers, naming ceremonies, or wedding lectures will not be held in their homes,” the council stated.
Clerics have also been cautioned that attending any prohibited event will lead to disciplinary action, including loss of their positions. The council says the move is to promote discipline, morality, and adherence to Islamic values in the community.
