News
NBC cautions broadcast stations against hate speech
Aminu Abdullahi Ibrahim
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has urged media outlets to refrain from promoting hate speech and derogatory statements through political programs.
KANO FOCUS reports that Adamu Salisu, the head of NBC’s Kano zonal office, gave the directive during a meeting with representatives of the Freedom of Expression team, part of the Gidan Yanci fellowship program, at his office.
Salisu explained that the political program, which allows political critics, known as Sojojin Baka, to confront their opponents, was intentionally designed to prevent physical altercations and political thuggery.
He noted that, this provides politicians with opportunity to channel their frustrations through the political programs rather than engaging in physical attacks.
“Over time, the privilege of expressing political views on these programs has devolved into personal attacks, with some media stations providing a platform for hate speech.
“We are governed by the Nigerian Broadcasting Codes, and all radio stations possess a copy. Our role is to uphold these codes, which are currently in their sixth edition. The seventh edition, containing new principles not included in the previous ones, will be launched this year,” he stated.
Salisu confirmed that unprofessional journalists, political critics, and political officeholders are the main contributors to this issue. He commended the Gidan Yanci Fellowship program for its efforts to reform political programming in Kano and expressed satisfaction with Gidan Yanci’s work, which he believes will help educate political critics about the dangers of hate speech and its societal impact.
“They must understand that unverified statements or opinions could result in imprisonment. I am pleased that the public now recognizes their right to legally challenge defamatory statements. I hoped this awareness extends not only to individuals but also to the media outlets where such statements are made,” he added.
He said NBC will partner Gidan Yanci to continue raising awareness among political presenters and critics.
Salisu mentioned that, aside from political interference, a court ruling that prevents NBC from imposing fines on media stations has been a significant obstacle in addressing violations of the NBC codes.
Furthermore, Salisu clarified that NBC lacks the authority to prosecute politicians who make derogatory comments; their jurisdiction is restricted to media stations.
He however said NBC has been issuing warnings to broadcast media houses who breach its regulations.
On behalf of the Freedom of Expression Team, Aminu Abdullahi Ibrahim pledged full support to NBC in achieving its objectives.
He expressed his delight at NBC’s willingness to collaborate with them to effect positive changes in political programming.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Director General of the Telecommunications Regulatory Board (ART) of the Republic of Cameroon, Philemon Zoo Zame, on Wednesday visited the headquarters of the [Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in Abuja for a benchmarking exercise aimed at strengthening regulatory collaboration and knowledge sharing between both countries.
KANO FOCUS reports that during the visit, the Cameroonian telecom regulator met with the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NCC, Aminu Maida.
A statement issued by Ayiabari A. Kigbara, Manager, Media Relations, Public Affairs Department of the NCC, said the engagement focused on exchanging ideas and best practices in telecommunications regulation, with emphasis on enhancing efficiency and development within the sector.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has announced that its ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) remains unchanged, reaffirming its commitment to stability in Nigeria’s domestic energy market.
In a statement issued by Esan Sunday, Head of Media Relations, Branding and Communication, the company said sustaining the current price reflects its efforts to cushion the broader economy against external shocks. It noted that by absorbing prevailing cost pressures, the refinery is helping to moderate inflationary risks, promote energy affordability, and ensure uninterrupted fuel supply amid ongoing global uncertainties.
The company reiterated its dedication to the steady supply of high-quality petroleum products to the Nigerian market, while aligning with national objectives of price stability and energy security.
It also urged the public to rely solely on official communications from the refinery for accurate and up-to-date information regarding its operations and pricing.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo on his emergence as the Deputy Governor of Kano State following his swearing-in on Tuesday.
KANO FOCUS reports that Garo was sworn in by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after being nominated to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of former deputy governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Garo’s appointment as a positive step toward strengthening unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State.
The President noted that the 48-year-old politician has held several public offices, including Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. He also served as the APC governorship running mate in the 2023 general elections.
Tinubu commended Governor Yusuf for the appointment, urging political stakeholders in the state to rally behind the administration to ensure stability and progress.
He also called on the new deputy governor to work closely with the governor in delivering effective leadership and accelerating development in Kano State.
The President wished Garo success in his new role.
Cameroon telecom regulator visits NCC for benchmarking exercise
Dangote Refinery maintains ex-depot price of PMS
Tinubu congratulates Garo on appointment as Kano deputy governor
Ganduje acknowledges Sanusi II as Emir of Kano, 6 years after dethroning him
Gov. Yusuf to swear in Murtala Garo as Kano deputy governor Tuesday
Kano SUBEB disowns fake teachers’ recruitment results
Sarkin Fulanin Jaidinawa Abubakar Gwadabe Buhari dies, funeral set for Wednesday
Kano Judicial Commission sanctions Shariah Court Judges, other staff over misconduct
Tinubu nominates Kano’s Rabiu Umar as new NMDPRA chief
