A coalition of 107 civil society organizations (CSOs) in Kano State has declared support for the suspension of live political radio programmes, calling it a necessary move to curb unethical broadcasting and rising political tension.
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In a statement co-signed by Hassan Ibrahim Gama and Mustapha Muhammed Chiroma, along with over 100 other representatives from various civil society and community-based organizations across Kano, described the decision by the Media Executive Forum as “courageous and principled.”
They commended the Forum for acting to restore professionalism in political broadcasting, noting that many suspended programmes had become platforms for “unverified claims, personal attacks, and provocative language,” which they said risked inciting division and disrupting public peace.
“Freedom of expression is vital in a democracy,” the statement read, “but it must be exercised with responsibility, truth, and respect for the law. When used recklessly, media platforms can fuel conflict instead of enlightening the public.”
The coalition urged other media outlets to review their editorial policies and avoid promoting misinformation, political manipulation, or hate speech. They also called on the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC), the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), and other stakeholders to enforce ethical standards and support training for media professionals.
“Let us work together to safeguard the media’s role as a pillar of democracy and peace,” the statement concluded.
