The Kano State Hisbah Board has announced plans to introduce mandatory mental health tests for intending couples as part of efforts to curb rising cases of domestic violence and divorce.
Deputy Commander-General of Hisbah, Mujahideen Aminudeen, disclosed the initiative in an interview with journalists, stressing that most marital crises are linked to mental health challenges.
“We have realized that many of the problems we see in marriages today are linked to mental health. The test will help us know if both partners are truly ready to live together without harming one another,” Aminudeen explained.
He noted that during marital counseling sessions, many women are found to be struggling with anxiety and depression, making mental health stability crucial for successful unions.
The Hisbah chief also raised alarm over the sale and use of alcohol and intoxicants in homes, which he described as a major contributor to mental health problems.
“We have uncovered that there are women at home who are selling alcohol and other intoxicants. This is a major cause for concern for us and it is adding to the mental health crisis,” he said.
Aminudeen further revealed that the policy would also apply to divorcees whose marriages are sponsored by the state government.
“We already have a series of mandatory tests before marriage, like genotype and sexually transmitted diseases, so adding a mental health evaluation will not be a stretch,” he stated.
He urged parents to thoroughly investigate the character of prospective suitors before approving marriages, stressing that family scrutiny remains vital.
