The Kano State government’s decision to ban live political programmes and introduce restrictive guidelines for journalists is a troubling abuse of press freedom and democratic expression in Nigeria.
Development Diaries reports that aside from placing a ban on live political programmes across all media platforms in the state, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, announced the introduction of stringent new guidelines for journalists and media guests.
While the state government claims the move is aimed at preserving cultural and religious values, the implications are far more alarming.
According to media reports, a statement signed by the Director of Special Duties in the ministry, Sani Yola, states that anyone appearing on air for interviews must now sign an undertaking to avoid making abusive, defamatory, or culturally offensive remarks.
It is also understood that presenters are prohibited from asking what the government describes as ‘provocative questions’ or using suggestive gestures that could elicit controversial responses or damage the image of the state.
Prohibiting journalists from asking so-called ‘provocative’ questions and compelling media guests to sign undertakings that restrict their freedom of expression is disturbing, and it is a move that undermines the very foundation of responsible journalism and civic engagement.
This action signals a deliberate attempt to control public discourse and silence dissenting voices under the guise of morality.
Section 39(1) of the Nigerian constitution explicitly guarantees freedom of expression and the press. Also, in a democracy, the media serves not just as a source of information but as a vital check on power.
So, denying journalists the freedom to ask tough questions or host live political discussions weakens transparency and accountability.
Even more disturbing is the growing pattern of intimidation, as seen in the reported detention of Buhari Abba and Ismail Auwal for publishing critical content.
Such acts point to an increasingly authoritarian posture that has no place in a democratic society.
It is also important to challenge the misleading narrative that press freedom and cultural values are mutually exclusive.
Responsible journalism can and does coexist with cultural sensitivity, but this balance must not be dictated by the state through arbitrary bans and threats.
True respect for cultural values includes the protection of voices that call for justice, equity, and reform. Gagging the media in the name of morality betrays the very values the government claims to uphold, while leaving the public less informed and more vulnerable to propaganda.
Development Diaries calls on Governor Abba Yusuf to direct the immediate reversal of this policy. Ultimately, the health of Kano’s democracy depends on a media environment that is free, open, and fearless.
Photo source: Abba Kabir Yusuf
