Bole Bans Expensive Islamic Weddings

The Chief Imam of the Bole Traditional Area in the Savannah Region, Alhaji Mohammed Iddrisu, has placed a ban on extravagant Islamic weddings with immediate effect, to ease financial burdens on young couples and preserve Islamic traditions.

In an official statement issued on Wednesday, March 5^th, 2025, Alhaji Iddrisu explained that the decision followed extensive consultations with Islamic clerics. He noted that the rising costs of weddings, fueled by lavish receptions, multiple outfit changes, and non-traditional practices such as male beauticians dressing women and record dances, had made it harder for young Muslims to get married.

The Chief Imam urged the public, especially religious and traditional leaders, to support the enforcement of this directive to maintain Islamic values.

Extravagant weddings have become more common in many Muslim communities, particularly in the northern regions as well as some Christians communities across Ghana. These extravagant ceremonies often include designer outfits, grand receptions, and high-profile guest lists, putting immense financial pressure on couples and their families.

As a result, many young people struggle to afford marriage, leading to delays or even discouragement from tying the knot.

Islamic teachings emphasize simplicity in weddings to ensure that marriage remains accessible to all, regardless of financial status. Alhaji Iddrisu’s directive seeks to realign wedding celebrations with these principles, making them more affordable and inclusive for Muslim youth in the Bole Traditional Area.

Read full release below:

BAN ON EXTRAVAGANT WEDDINGS

I am grateful to inform your esteem office that I, the Chief Imam (Alhaji Mohammed Iddrisu) of Bole Traditional Area, after several council meetings with the Islamic clergy, wish to put a ban on extravagant Islamic weddings within my jurisdiction which does not conform to Islamic practices starting on Wednesday, 5^thMarch, 2025.

This decision aims to curb deviant practices which set high wedding cost, therefore making it difficult for many youths to get married.

These deviant practices of late which are introduced by the youth include;

1. ‘Reception’ (multiple dressings by the couples)
2. Male beauticians dressing the opposite sex
3. Record dance, popularly known as jams

I am therefore, counting on your usual cooperation to help in the full operationalization of this ban.

Thank you,

Alhaji Mohammed Iddrisu