While recognising the importance of cultural preservation and ethical standards, CITAD warned that such regulatory moves, if not handled carefully, could undermine the digital freedoms of citizens and stifle the creative industry.
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has raised strong concerns over recent actions taken by the Kano State government, saying these could infringe on citizens’ digital rights and freedom of expression.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Y.Z. Ya’u, the organisation condemned the suspension of 22 Kannywood films by the Kano State Censorship Board.
While recognising the importance of cultural preservation and ethical standards, CITAD warned that such regulatory moves, if not handled carefully, could undermine the digital freedoms of citizens and stifle the creative industry.
“In an age where the internet serves as a vital platform for education, entertainment, and economic empowerment, it is crucial that regulatory bodies avoid suppressing creative expression,” Ya’u said. “Restricting digital content could drive local creators to unregulated platforms that lack the cultural values the state seeks to protect.”
CITAD also expressed concern over a broader trend of digital rights violations in the state, citing the arrest of Buhari Abba, publisher of Kano Times, as an example of the shrinking space for free expression.
“The internet is a borderless space where information flows freely. Isolating the state through overregulation is not only impractical but also risks alienating local talents who may choose to operate outside the state’s jurisdiction,” the statement noted.
To address the growing concerns, CITAD issued a three-point call to action:
“The Kano State Government should uphold the constitutional rights of citizens to freedom of expression and access to information.”
“Authorities are urged to refrain from actions that may infringe on digital rights and tarnish the state’s image.”
“The Censorship Board should engage with key stakeholders — including filmmakers and digital rights advocates — to establish inclusive and balanced guidelines that respect both cultural values and digital freedoms.”
The statement concluded with a call for collaboration rather than confrontation in developing policies that govern digital and creative spaces.
SaharaReporters earlier reported that popular Hausa series Gidan Sarauta and 21 other series had been suspended by the Kano State Censorship Board for violating censorship regulations and releasing their content without proper approval.
The Board, in a statement on Monday, said that the affected titles were not submitted for the mandatory censorship process before production, marketing, streaming, or broadcast.
The Executive Secretary of the Board, Abba El-Mustapha, approved the suspension after a management meeting and consultations with key industry stakeholders.
According to the Information Officer of the Board, Abdullahi Sulaiman, “The suspended titles failed to comply with requirements mandating all films to be submitted for approval before being produced, marketed, streamed, or broadcast.”
Other suspended titles include Dakin Amarya, Labarina, Gwarwashi, Dadin Kowa, and Manyan Mata.
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