By Muhammad Mamman
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticised a reported order allegedly issued by a Kano Magistrate’s Court directing two TikTok content creators — Idris Mai Wushirya and Basira Yar Guda — to marry each other within 60 days.
The controversial directive, which has sparked outrage across social media and human rights circles, was said to have followed a case involving the duo’s content, which some claimed was “immoral” or “inappropriate.” Details surrounding the legal basis for the marriage order remain unclear, but the NBA has categorically condemned the move, calling it unconstitutional and an abuse of judicial authority.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, the NBA said: “No court in Nigeria has the legal power to compel any citizen into marriage. Such an order, if it indeed exists, is a gross violation of personal liberty, dignity, and the fundamental rights guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The association warned that forced or coercive marriage directives, regardless of the context, could not be justified under Nigerian law, and urged both the Kano State Judiciary and the National Judicial Council to urgently investigate the matter.
Human rights advocates have also weighed in, with many pointing out that the alleged order trivialises the serious institution of marriage and undermines the independence of the judiciary.
The NBA further noted that while courts may adjudicate on matters of public morality or social conduct, they must do so within the confines of the law — not cultural or religious sentiment.
The incident has reignited national debate on the intersection between law, culture, religion, and digital content creation in Nigeria, especially in states operating under Sharia-influenced legal systems alongside federal law.
As of now, no official statement has been issued by the Kano State Judiciary, and it remains to be confirmed whether such an order was formally recorded or enforced. The NBA has pledged to monitor the situation and provide legal support if the rights of the individuals involved have been violated.
