Kano government moves to ban live political programmes

The Kano government has announced new regulations designed to “regulate” media content and “safeguard cultural and religious values”.

The government said the intention is not to silence critics or stifle the press.

Sani Abba Yola, director of special duties at the Kano ministry of information and internal affairs, said on Wednesday that the resolutions were the outcome of a meeting convened by Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, Kano commissioner of information.

Some media executives in the state attended the meeting.

Yola, in a statement, said the quarterly meeting was organised by the ministry to “reinforce ethical journalism, promote mutual respect, and strengthen collaboration between the media and government”.

He added that during the meeting, key resolutions were made, including that all guests appearing on media platforms must sign an undertaking to refrain from making abusive and defamatory remarks.

“However, the newly announced directives have sparked debate. While the government insists its intentions are to protect Kano’s cultural and religious values — not to silence dissent,” the statement reads.

“Critics argue that the measures amount to media censorship and suppression of political opposition

“Key resolutions from the meeting include: All guests appearing on media platforms must sign an undertaking to refrain from making abusive, defamatory, or culturally offensive remarks.

“A complete ban on live political programmes across all media outlets. Presenters are prohibited from asking provocative questions or making gestures that could incite defamation or damage Kano State’s image.”

The director added that the state has conducted sensitisation campaigns for broadcasters, media commentators, and religious leaders to promote responsible communication.

The move comes amid increasing attacks against journalists and civil society in Nigeria.