Kano govt bans unapproved Islamic singers’ debates

The Kano State Censorship Board has announced an immediate ban on all Islamic singers’ debates in the state without prior approval, warning that violators will face legal consequences.

This was just as Mallam Usman Maidubun Isa and Shehi Mai Tajul’izzi have been directed to appear at a board to be investigated by a committee set up to investigate a debate the duo held, which the government considered to be an alleged affront

The Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Abba El-Mustapha announced an unapproved debate between Usman Maidubun Isa and Shehi Mai Tajul’izzi, which the board described as a clear breach of its operational guidelines.

According to a statement signed by the Board’s Information Officer, Abdullahi Sani Sulaiman, El-Mustapha said the move was necessary to safeguard peace, harmony, and compliance among stakeholders in the entertainment and religious sectors.

The statement read: “In a move to ensure peace, harmony, and compliance among stakeholders in the entertainment and religious sectors, the Board hereby announces an immediate ban on all Islamic singers’ debates without prior approval from the Censorship Board.”

Also, the Board stated that a fact-finding investigation committee has been set up to probe the matter, chaired by Malam Isha Abdullahi, Director of Special Duties at the Censorship Board.

However, while inaugurating the committee, El-Mustapha gave a 24-hour ultimatum to the two singers and their moderators to appear before the panel.

“Organising such debates without official consent from the Board violates the Kano State Censorship Law and may attract serious legal actions,” the statement warned.

Reiterating the Board’s mandate, El-Mustapha stressed that it would continue to regulate and supervise the activities of Islamic singers and performers in the state in line with the law.

He further called on residents to support the Board’s efforts.

“The public is urged to remain calm and support the Board by providing relevant information that will foster peace, understanding, and cultural development across the state,” he said.

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