Wedding celebrations in Kano State are set to take a different turn after the state government announced an immediate ban on activities popularly known as “after-party” and “hot challenge.”
Moreover, event organisers, masters of ceremony, and venue owners have been placed on notice as authorities move to enforce the directive.
The Kano State Censorship Board said anyone who ignores the order could face legal sanctions. Consequently, all stakeholders have been urged to comply immediately with the new rules.
The announcement was made on Saturday by the Executive Secretary of the Kano State Censorship Board, Abba El-Mustapha.
The directive was conveyed in a statement signed by the board’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Sulaiman.
According to the board, the decision forms part of ongoing efforts to regulate entertainment activities during weddings and other social gatherings across the state.
Officials explained that recent reports showed a growing trend of “after-party” and “hot challenge” activities at event centres.
The board believes the trend does not reflect the cultural and religious identity of Kano State.
Part of the statement reads:
“The attention of the board has been drawn to the growing trend of this activity, which is considered a Western cultural practice increasingly introduced into wedding celebrations in the state.”
Furthermore, the board said the activities have now been suspended across the state.
It added:
“Consequently, the board has suspended the practice in order to safeguard the cultural, moral and religious values of the people of Kano State.”
According to officials, public events should promote respect, discipline, and values accepted by residents of the state.
In addition, the directive applies to event centres, masters of ceremony, event planners, and everyone involved in organising social events.
Authorities warned that failure to comply with the order could attract legal consequences under the laws of Kano State.
Meanwhile, enforcement efforts are expected to begin immediately.
The board urged venue operators and event organisers to ensure that prohibited activities are not included in future celebrations.
Residents were also encouraged to cooperate with authorities by reporting any violations.
According to the statement, members of the public should promptly notify the board whenever an event centre or master of ceremony is found organising or promoting the suspended activities.
Furthermore, officials believe public support will strengthen enforcement and help ensure compliance across the state.
Others are expected to closely watch how the policy is enforced in the coming weeks.
For now, event planners, MCs, and venue operators have been advised to comply fully with the directive to avoid possible legal action.
