The Chief Imam of the Bole Traditional Area, Alhaji Mohammed Iddrisu, has officially banned extravagant Islamic wedding ceremonies within his jurisdiction, effective Wednesday, 5th March 2025.
The decision, made after extensive consultations with Islamic clerics, seeks to curb the rising costs of weddings and to bring marriage practices in line with core Islamic values.
Alhaji Iddrisu expressed concern that the growing trend of lavish weddings is placing undue financial pressure on young people, making it increasingly difficult for them to marry.
“Our goal is to remove unnecessary barriers and make marriage more accessible,” he stated. “Weddings should reflect Islamic teachings, not societal pressure or material excess.”
The directive is expected to ease the burden on families and encourage more modest, meaningful ceremonies rooted in faith and tradition.
The ban specifically targets lavish wedding receptions, multiple outfit changes by couples, and record dances, commonly known as “jams.”
Additionally, the ruling prohibits male beauticians from dressing women, a practice deemed contrary to Islamic customs.
A statement issued from the Office of the Bole Chief Imam explained that such practices have inflated wedding costs, making marriage less accessible to many youths.
“This decision aims to curb deviant practices that set high wedding costs, therefore making it difficult for many youths to get married,” the statement read.
To ensure compliance, the Chief Imam has called on all stakeholders, including religious leaders, community elders, and local authorities, to support the enforcement of the ban.
He urged residents to embrace simpler wedding ceremonies that reflect the true essence of Islamic traditions.
Copies of the directive have been distributed to key authorities, including the Paramount Chief of Bole (Bolewura), the Bole Municipal Police Commander, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), and local media outlets such as Nkilgi FM and Yagbon FM, to aid in its implementation.
