In a recent development, the Kano State Head of Media Forums clarified the circumstances surrounding the ban on live political programs streaming in the state. Ado Saidu Warawa, Chairman of the Head Media Forum, explained that the decision to suspend live political broadcasts was collectively agreed upon by the media forums, not imposed by the government. This clarification followed an emergency meeting in Kano, where Warawa said the measure was taken to prevent the state from descending into chaos and uncertainty.
Warawa cited a National Broadcast Corporation (NBC) report showing that 50 percent of abusive and derogatory broadcasts originated from Kano, primarily during live political programs. He emphasized that the ban was not taken lightly, noting 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 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, the Kano Heads of Media Forum encouraged citizens to intensify efforts to mobilize 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, thereby contributing to robust democratic governance at all levels.
The move to ban live political programs in Kano State highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing freedom of expression with responsible, ethical journalism. As the media landscape evolves, similar debates are likely to emerge in other regions, underscoring the need to inform and engage citizens while maintaining public peace and national unity.
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