BREAKING: Kano Government Bans Live Political Programs, Imposes Strict Regulations on Media Outlets

The Kano State Government has introduced new regulations aimed at controlling media content across the state, sparking controversy and criticism from civil society groups and political commentators.

The regulations, announced by the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, include a blanket ban on live political programs across all media outlets and a requirement for guests on radio and television programs to sign an undertaking to refrain from making remarks considered abusive, defamatory, or offensive to Kano’s cultural values.

The government claims the initiative is intended to “safeguard Kano’s cultural and moral integrity” and ensure “responsible communication” in line with the state’s values. According to the State Commissioner, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the guidelines are not designed to “stifle free expression” but to promote mutual respect and strengthen collaboration between the media and government.

However, opponents argue that the bans and undertakings amount to censorship and undermine the role of the media in holding power to account. The move has drawn criticism, with some describing it as a veiled attempt to suppress political opposition and limit critical voices in the media.

Despite the backlash, media executives have expressed willingness to cooperate with the government and offered recommendations on improving content standards and fostering a “peaceful media environment”.