In a recent development, the Kano State Head of Media Forums has clarified the circumstances surrounding the ban on live political programs streaming in the state. According to Ado Saidu Warawa, Chairman of the Head Media Forum, the decision to suspend live political broadcasts was collectively agreed upon by the media forums, rather than being imposed by the government.

This clarification comes after an emergency meeting held in Kano, where Warawa stated that the decision was made to prevent the state from descending into chaos and uncertainty. He cited a National Broadcast Corporation (NBC) report, which revealed that 50 percent of abusive and derogatory broadcasts originated from Kano, primarily during live political programs.

Warawa emphasized that the decision to ban live political broadcasts was not taken lightly, citing a troubling trend of misinformation, incitement, and unguarded rhetoric that threatened national unity and public peace. While reaffirming the forum’s commitment to freedom of expression and media plurality, he stressed the importance of responsible journalism and the need for moderated, factual, and constructive political discourse.

The Head Media Forum has called on all media houses to respect the directive and collaborate in promoting a media environment that informs without inflaming, educates without exaggerating, and unites rather than divides. Warawa noted that democracy thrives when citizens are informed and responsibly engaged, and the forum is ready to work with stakeholders to build a more transparent, peaceful, and participatory society.

In addition to addressing the ban on live political programs, the Kano Heads of Media Forum has encouraged citizens to intensify efforts in mobilizing eligible voters for both online and in-person registration. By leveraging community outreach, media sensitization, and grassroots engagement, the forum aims to ensure that every eligible Nigerian participates in the electoral process, ultimately contributing to robust democratic governance at all levels.

The move to ban live political programs in Kano State highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing freedom of expression with the need for responsible and ethical journalism. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it is likely that similar debates and discussions will emerge in other regions, underscoring the importance of finding a balance between informing and engaging citizens, while also maintaining public peace and national unity.