Islamic Appraisal of Contemporary Marriage Ceremony Practices and Innovations Among Muslims in Keffi LGA of Nasarawa State

Abstract

This study examines contemporary marriage ceremony practices and innovations among Muslims in Keffi Local Government Area (LGA) of Nasarawa State from an Islamic perspective. The research investigates the nature and extent of innovations introduced into marriage ceremonies by Muslims in the study area, evaluates these practices against the standard of Qur'anic injunctions and authentic Sunnah, and proposes Islamic-compliant recommendations for reforming marriage ceremonies. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and conducted oral interviews with selected respondents in Keffi LGA. Findings revealed that contemporary Muslim marriage ceremonies in Keffi are increasingly characterized by extravagance, mixed-gender gatherings, musical entertainment, excessive bride price demands, and the importation of non-Islamic cultural practices. These innovations contradict the simplicity, modesty, and purity commanded by the Qur'an and Sunnah. The study concludes that many contemporary Muslim marriage practices in Keffi deviate significantly from Islamic standards and recommends urgent re-orientation through mosque-based education, community leadership engagement, and Islamic family counseling programs.