This isn’t Las Vegas; Group condemns nudity immoral activities during Govs 2nd year anniversary

This isn’t Las Vegas; Group condemns nudity immoral activities during Govs 2nd year anniversary

A leading Islamic group in Zamfara State, the Zamfara Ulama Defence Forum (ZUDF), has strongly criticised the nature of the events that marked Governor Dauda Lawal’s second year in office, describing them as deeply offensive to Islamic values and a threat to the state’s moral fabric.

In a statement issued Friday in Gusau, the forum expressed outrage over what it called the “deliberate reintroduction of moral decay” through festivities that included musical performances, skimpily dressed female dancers, and the public consumption of alcohol, activities the group said directly contravene Islamic teachings and the long-standing cultural norms of the state.

ZUDF President, Sheikh Bashir Mu’azu Marafa, condemned the event in strong terms, stating:

“What we witnessed is unimaginable in a state like Zamfara, which pioneered the implementation of Sharia law in Nigeria. The presence of entertainers, alcohol, and inappropriately dressed women paraded on stage is a stain on the values we hold sacred.”

The group noted that such public displays of what it called “immorality” are unacceptable in any conservative Muslim society, and even more alarming in a state historically seen as a model for Islamic governance.

“Zamfara is not Las Vegas,” Sheikh Marafa said.

“It is a land of discipline, modesty, and religious principle. To see these scenes unfold with official sanction is disgraceful and deeply troubling.”

He warned that the incident could signal a dangerous shift toward secularism, undermining decades of work by religious leaders and reformers to uphold moral standards in the state.

ZUDF also raised concerns about the message being sent to the youth and future generations, saying the governor’s actions risk eroding Zamfara’s Islamic identity.

“If this is what leadership now celebrates, then we fear for the next four years. What future are we building when those in power promote moral decline under the guise of celebration?”

The group called on Islamic scholars across Zamfara to break their silence, warning that failure to speak out amounts to complicity.

It also urged the state assembly, traditional rulers, and civil society groups to demand accountability for the content and tone of the anniversary celebrations.

ZUDF further demanded a public apology from Governor Lawal and a commitment to ensuring that future public events reflect the moral and religious values of the people of Zamfara.

The forum also acknowledged the voices of concern raised by citizens on social media, especially young people who it said had shown greater awareness of right and wrong than some in positions of leadership.

“We will not stop speaking out against anything that threatens our identity and values. Our commitment to safeguarding the moral integrity of Zamfara remains unwavering,” the statement concluded.