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The Kano State Government has imposed a ban on all live political broadcasts on radio and television, citing the need to uphold public morality and prevent the escalation of divisive or offensive rhetoric.
Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, announced the decision during a strategic meeting with media executives. He stressed that the measure was introduced not to silence dissenting voices, but to ensure that media discourse aligns with the state’s deeply held cultural and religious standards.
“We are not out to gag the media or suppress political opposition,” Waiya stated. “Our concern is to uphold responsible communication that aligns with the cultural and religious sensitivities of Kano State.”
Waiya explained that the government had noticed a positive change in broadcast conduct following prior consultations with media professionals.
“The reduction in abusive language on air is commendable and a direct result of our previous engagements with media professionals,” he said.
As part of the new directive, individuals invited to appear on radio or TV programs must now sign a formal undertaking pledging to avoid any form of abusive, inflammatory, or culturally insensitive remarks. Broadcasters were also instructed to avoid asking leading or provocative questions that could provoke defamatory responses from guests.
“This is a collective effort to preserve the integrity of our media and ensure the dignity of the state is not compromised,” Waiya added, underscoring the administration’s commitment to maintaining decorum in public communication.
Media stakeholders present at the meeting welcomed the government’s move, expressing their willingness to collaborate in elevating ethical standards within the industry. They also contributed ideas for further reforms aimed at fostering respectful public discourse and curbing hate speech.
In addition to the broadcast restrictions, the state government is rolling out a wider sensitisation campaign. Waiya revealed that the campaign will target key public influencers, including political presenters, media commentators, and religious leaders—especially Friday Imams—encouraging them to adopt more constructive and respectful language when addressing the public.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment between the government and media institutions to promote responsible journalism that reflects the values of Kano State while preserving peace and unity.
