In a surprising move, the Kano State Government on Tuesday announced the withdrawal of accreditation for 14 journalists assigned to cover its activities.
The decision, announced by Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the spokesperson for Governor Abba Yusuf, has left the media community in the state perplexed.
While no official reason was given for the withdrawal, Dawakin-Tofa’s message on the Government House press crew’s WhatsApp group hinted at recent incidents that may have prompted the decision.
The 14 affected journalists, representing various media organizations, were informed of the decision and instructed to return to their respective offices for replacements.
Among those affected were prominent figures in the media landscape, including directors, producers, and cameramen from various media organizations .
Among those named were: Aliyu Yusuf, Director Public Enlightenment – Sani Suraj Abubakar, PRO- Adamu Dabo, Chairman Crew – FRCN- Naziru Yau, ARTV- Sadiq Sani AA, ARTV- Umar Sheka, Triumph- RabiuSunusi, Freedom- Jabir Dan’abba, Nasara- Labaran Sound- Simon, AIT Cameraman- Nasiru Danhaki, NTA- Abdullahi Sule, Driver- Murtala Baba Kusa, Express- Ibrahim Muazzam, Radio Kano.
Sources familiar with the situation revealed that the decision might be linked to several incidents, including a confrontation between the Kano government house press crew and DSS operatives during Governor Yusuf’s condolence visit to Jigawa.
Another incident involved journalists seeking an audience with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed without prior approval.
However, insiders suggested that the decision might be more complex than these isolated incidents.
Lingering tensions, such as a stray bullet that struck a journalist’s window months ago, and concerns over leaked information regarding the government’s interactions with the press might have played a role.
The withdrawal of accreditation has sparked concerns among media professionals and raised questions about the government’s relationship with the press.
Many are calling for transparency and a clear explanation for the decision. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this move will impact the media landscape in Kano State.