‘Routine replacement’ — Kano denies banning 14 journalists from covering government house

The Kano state government has denied claims that it banned 14 accredited journalists from covering the government house.

On Tuesday, 14 journalists were asked to return to their respective organisations for replacements without prior notification or official reasons.

The decision was linked to a disagreement between the journalists and the state media managers over issues of privileges.

“Gentlemen of the press, permit me to thank all of you for a job well done in the last one year and few months. Unfortunately, while I was away to the Republic of Serbia last week, some issues happened and the leadership needed to take a decision at this critical time,” the notice read.

Reacting to the development, Dawakin-Tofa Bature, spokesperson of Abba Yusuf, governor of Kano state, said it is a routine to replace reporters who cover the activities of the governor.

Bature explained that the state government can decide “at any time” to ask for the replacement of reporters with or without an explanation.

“Replacement is normal. From time to time, people are changed from Government House beat with or without reason. It is a normal in any organization,” Bature told TheCable.

“Many at times, media organisations replace their reporters or we ask for replacement.”

The affected persons include Aliyu Yusuf, director for public enlightenment; Sani Abubakar, public relations officer (PRO); Adamu Dabo, chairman crew, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN); Naziru Yau, Abubakar Rimi Television (ARTV); Sadiq Sani AA, ARTV; Rabiu Sunusi, Triumph; and Umar Sheka, Freedom Radio.

Others are Jabir Dan’abba, Nasara Radio; Labaran, sound operator; Simon, AIT cameraman; Nasiru Danhaki, Nigeria Television Authority (NTA); Abdullahi Sule, driver; Baba Kusa, Express Radio; and Ibrahim Muazzam, Radio Kano.