The Kano State Government has issued a ban on 14 journalists assigned to cover its activities, raising concerns about press freedom in the region.
The unexpected decision was announced on Monday night by Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, spokesperson for Governor Abba Yusuf, informing the affected reporters that their accreditation had been withdrawn, effective from Tuesday.
In his message, Dawakin-Tofa thanked the journalists for their work but mentioned that “undisclosed issues” had forced the government to take action while he was away in Serbia.
The list of banned media personnel includes directors, producers, and cameramen from various media organisations, Aliyu Yusuf, Director Public Enlightenment – Sani Suraj Abubakar, PRO- Adamu Dabo, Chairman Crew – FRCN- Naziru Yau, and ARTV- Sadiq Sani AA.
Others are ARTV- Rabiu Sunusi, Triumph- Umar Sheka, Freedom- Jabir Dan’abba, Nasara- Labaran Sound- Simon, AIT Cameraman- Nasiru Danhaki, NTA- Abdullahi Sule, Driver- Murtala Baba Kusa, Express- Ibrahim Muazzam, Radio Kano.
Although no specific reasons were given for the ban, reports indicate that the governor was displeased with a confrontation that occurred between the Kano government press crew and DSS operatives during a condolence visit following a petrol tanker explosion. The disagreement reportedly escalated and was brought to the governor’s attention.
Tensions have also been reported after journalists sought an unscheduled meeting with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed during a visit for a religious event, which further frustrated Governor Yusuf and his officials.
Journalists working in Kano have expressed concerns about increasing pressure and difficult working conditions, particularly following an incident where a stray bullet hit a journalist’s window. While government officials denied this incident, it has contributed to a strained relationship between the press and the state administration, with complaints about leaks of confidential government discussions.