Islamic Cleric Decries “Immoral” Wedding Extravagance, Calls for Modesty
One of Nigeria’s prominent Islamic scholars, Sheikh Sharif Ibrahim Saleh Alhussaini, has issued a strong condemnation of the rising cost of marriage, describing excessive wedding expenses as unnecessary, un-Islamic, and a catalyst for social immorality.
In a video address obtained by PRNigeria, the renowned cleric warned that modern cultural demands placed on prospective grooms have transformed a simple religious obligation into a source of psychological and financial trauma for young men.
Returning to Scriptural Foundations
Sheikh Alhussaini, who spoke in Hausa, clarified that Islam maintains a very clear and modest framework for marriage. He emphasized that once a groom pays the Mahr (dowry) and proves his capacity to provide basic accommodation, clothing, and feeding, the essential religious requirements are met.
“Some cultural practices are not in line with religious scriptures. They are excessive, and this has made marriage expensive,” the scholar stated. “When marriage becomes too expensive, society risks falling into immorality because young people are barred from the legitimate path by artificial financial hurdles.”
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The cleric noted that while Islam does not forbid a wealthy groom from celebrating his union, it strictly forbids the imposition of mandatory, extravagant lists of financial and material expectations that have no basis in the Quran or the Sunnah.
He cited the example of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), noting that during his era, prospective husbands were never burdened with the unreasonable conditions that have become commonplace in modern Nigeria.
“Everything else beyond the dowry and the responsibility to care for the wife based on the groom’s ability is an innovation,” Sheikh Alhussaini asserted. “We have lost sight of what truly matters.”
The scholar made a direct appeal to parents and guardians to curb their demands and champion simplicity. He argued that the “mandatory” status given to secondary cultural rites is damaging the social fabric by delaying marriages and placing undue pressure on new families.
He urged young men to focus on the legitimate dowry as the primary financial act and avoid the trap of competitive extravagance.
The cleric concluded by reminding the Muslim Ummah that modest weddings are not only more blessed but are essential for building a morally sound society where the institution of marriage remains accessible to all, regardless of their socio-economic status.
By PRNigeria
