In the state capital of Jalingo, the Muslim Council of Taraba State has formally outlawed wedding festivities of any kind.
Following discussions with local authorities, Islamic clergy, and traditional rulers, the decision was taken.
Popular events like Kauyawa and Ajo parties, which draw sizable crowds of young people who frequently wear ragged clothes and dance late into the night, are explicitly targeted by the prohibition.
The sermon (Khutbah) that all of the imams of the Jummat mosques in Jalingo gave during last Friday’s services focused on the ban.
On behalf of the Taraba Muslim Council, Imam Tajudeen Nuhu, the Chief Imam of the Mayo Gwoi Jummat Mosque in Jalingo, issued the ban, which stated: “From now on, no home is permitted to host ‘Kauyawa,’ parties, ‘Ajo,’ or any other type of celebration during weddings here in Jalingo.
“Defaulters will be severely punished: their Nikah (marriage contract) will not be performed by an imam.” Even worse, their homes will not host wedding talks, naming rituals, or funeral prayers.
Additionally, clerics were cautioned against going to such prohibited gatherings for fear of losing their jobs.
Strict adherence was advised by the council.
