Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with radio political program presenters to promote responsible public discourse and prevent the misuse of broadcast platforms for the spread of misinformation, particularly on security-related matters.
This assurance was given during a special meeting convened by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, with the Heads of the Radio Political Presenters Forum, Kano State. The meeting was held at the Ministry’s Conference Hall.
Speaking at the engagement, Comrade Waiya said the meeting became necessary in view of recent security concerns in some local government areas bordering Katsina State, which have generated heightened public interest and extensive discussions across media platforms.
The Commissioner noted that while political programs play a vital role in democratic engagement, presenters must exercise caution, restraint, and professionalism when handling sensitive security issues.
He urged members of the Forum to refrain from allowing politicians and political actors to discuss security matters on political programs, stressing that such issues are best handled through news bulletins and other platforms designed for verified and official security information.
According to him, unregulated discussions on security by politicians often fuel speculation, misinformation, and unnecessary panic among the public.
He warned that portraying Kano State as unsafe or exaggerating security challenges could erode public confidence, threaten social stability, and negatively impact the state’s economic prospects.
Comrade Waiya reiterated that the state government remains firmly in control of the security situation and continues to work closely with security agencies to address emerging threats.
He called on radio political presenters to support these efforts by ensuring that discussions on their programs remain factual, responsible, professional, and focused on promoting peace and development.
He commended members of the Forum for their cooperation with the government and urged them to continue upholding ethical standards, professionalism, and the public interest in the discharge of their duties.
Responding on behalf of the Forum, the Chairman, Heads of Radio Political Presenters Forum, Kano State, Abdullahi Wali, pledged the members’ commitment to responsible broadcasting and strict adherence to professional ethics.
He assured the Commissioner that political presenters would intensify monitoring of discussions on their platforms and discourage sensational or unverified narratives, especially on security-related issues.
Comrade Wali thanked the Commissioner and the Kano State Government for the engagement and for recognizing the role of political presenters in shaping public opinion and strengthening democratic values in the state.
Credit: Abba Sani Yola
