The Kano State Government announced on Tuesday the revocation of accreditation for 14 journalists assigned to cover its activities. The announcement was made through a message from Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the spokesperson for Governor Abba Yusuf, who instructed the journalists to return to their organizations for replacements.
Although no official reason was given, Dawakin-Tofa’s message in the Government House press crew’s WhatsApp group alluded to recent developments. He wrote, “Gentlemen of the press. Permit me to thank all of you for a job well done in the last one year and a few months. Unfortunately, while I was away in the Republic of Serbia last week, some undisclosed issues happened, and the leadership needed to take a decision at this critical time.”
The statement listed the 14 affected journalists, including directors, producers, and cameramen from various media outlets. Among those named were Aliyu Yusuf (Director of Public Enlightenment), Sani Suraj Abubakar (PRO), Adamu Dabo (Chairman Crew – FRCN), Naziru Yau (ARTV), Sadiq Sani AA (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), and Ibrahim Muazzam (Radio Kano).
Sources familiar with the situation indicated that the decision might be related to several incidents. One key event reportedly occurred during Governor Yusuf’s condolence visit to Jigawa after a petrol tanker explosion. A confrontation between the Kano Government House press crew and DSS operatives at the Jigawa Government House escalated into a heated argument over access restrictions.
Another incident involved journalists seeking an audience with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed during a visit to Kano for a religious event without prior approval, which reportedly upset officials.
While these incidents were cited, insiders suggested the decision could be more complex. They pointed to lingering tensions, including an incident where a stray bullet hit a journalist’s window months ago, despite government denials, and concerns over leaked information regarding government interactions with the press.
