Gumi noted that such practices by these governments would effectively curb prostitution, fornication, adultery, and promiscuity.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Kaduna State-based Islamic cleric and former military officer, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has argued that governments in states operating Sharia law are bound to use public funds to support mass weddings.
He rationalised the decision of governors involved in the practice on Thursday in a post shared via his official Facebook page.
According to Gumi, these governments have a duty to address social needs arising from the prohibition of sexual relationships outside marriage under both religious principles and state laws.
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The Islamic scholar noted that government intervention to assist people who cannot afford marriage would effectively curb prostitution, fornication, adultery, and promiscuity.
He further asserted that public resources could legitimately be used to support young people in urgent need of marriage, as well as women who face limited opportunities to find suitable spouses.
Taking to his verified handle, Gumi wrote:
“In a Sharia 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.”
