The Kano State Censorship Board has announced an immediate ban on activities popularly referred to as “after-party” and “hot challenge” during wedding ceremonies and other social events held at event centres across the state.
The directive was announced by the Executive Secretary of the board, Abba El-Mustapha, through a statement issued on Saturday by the board’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Sulaiman.
According to the board, the decision followed concerns over the growing popularity of the activities, which it described as foreign cultural practices gradually becoming part of wedding celebrations in Kano.
The board explained that the suspension forms part of ongoing efforts to regulate the operations of masters of ceremony (MCs), event centres and other stakeholders in the entertainment industry, while ensuring that public events comply with the state’s cultural, moral and religious values.
It stated that the move is also aimed at sanitising entertainment activities and preventing practices considered inconsistent with the traditions and beliefs of the people of Kano.
Despite the ban, the board maintained that it supports responsible entertainment at weddings and social gatherings, provided such activities promote decency, respect local culture and align with religious teachings.
The statement stressed that entertainment remains an important aspect of celebrations when conducted within acceptable ethical standards.
The board further directed owners of event centres, MCs, event planners and all organisers of social events to comply fully with the new directive. It warned that individuals or organisations found violating the order could face legal sanctions under the relevant laws governing the board’s operations.
Residents were also encouraged to support enforcement efforts by reporting any event centre or MC that continues to organise or promote the suspended activities within Kano State.
