The Kano State Government has banned live political programmes and prohibited journalists from posing “provocative” questions during media interviews.
Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Waiya, disclosed this in a statement signed by Sani Abba Yola, director of special duties in the Ministry, after a meeting with media executives on Wednesday.
Comrade Waiya argued that the government’s stance is not to suppress political opposition but to safeguard the sanctity of Kano’s cultural and religious values.
“Among the key resolutions reached during the meeting were: Anyone appearing on media platforms for interviews must sign an undertaking to refrain from making abusive, defamatory, or culturally offensive remarks.
“A ban has been placed on live political programmes across media outlets to prevent the spread of inflammatory content.
“Presenters were also banned from asking provocative questions or making suggestive gestures that could lead to statements capable of defaming individuals or damaging the image of Kano State,” the statement noted.
Recall that Comrade Waiya has been accused of attempting to stifle media freedom when he ordered for detention of Kano Times editor, Buhari Abba, and a journalist, Ismail Auwal, over an article criticizing his stewardship.
Observers and media freedom advocates fear that the government is weaponizing morality to suppress dissent and stifle free speech under the guise of protecting cultural values.
Comrade Waiya defended the rules, citing “remarkable progress” in reducing hate speech and unethical content since earlier collaborations with media leaders.
He emphasized that the policies aim to “preserve Kano’s dignity,” not target political opposition. “Our goal is responsible communication that respects our values,” he stated.
Critics, however, argue that the measures disproportionately restrict journalistic freedom as banning live debates and policing questions is censorship, not cultural protection. This sets a dangerous precedent for silencing critical voices.
