Controversy Erupts As Gumi Supports Public Funds For Mass Weddings In Sharia States

Gumi’s position comes amid a state-sponsored mass wedding involving 1,500 couples in Kano State.

In a statement shared on Facebook on Thursday, the cleric argued that governments operating under Shariah have a responsibility to address social challenges created by the prohibition of sexual relationships outside marriage.

He explained that in societies where prostitution, fornication, adultery and promiscuity are prohibited by both religious principles and state laws, government assistance for people who cannot afford to get married should be regarded as part of responsible governance.

According to Gumi, public resources can legitimately be deployed to assist young people who are in urgent need of marriage, as well as women who may face difficulties finding suitable spouses.

He said, “In a Shariah law-driven state, where prostitution, fornication, adultery, and promiscuity are prohibited by both divine and state laws, using public funds to facilitate the marriage of women who are in excess of the available pool of eligible men, or of any young person in dire need of marriage, is a legitimate and responsible component of good governance.”