Kano State Film and Video Censorship Board Revokes Licences of Eight Entertainment Centres Over Cultural and Moral Violations

The Kano State Film and Video Censorship Board has taken a decisive step by revoking the operational licences of eight entertainment centres within the state. This significant move is part of the board’s ongoing efforts to safeguard and uphold Kano State’s deep-rooted cultural, religious, and moral values in the entertainment sector. The indefinite ban aims to curb the rising trend of entertainment venues that allegedly contravene local laws and social norms.

Background to the Ban: Protecting Kano’s Cultural and Moral Landscape

Kano State, known for its rich cultural heritage and strong adherence to Islamic values, has always maintained strict guidelines regarding entertainment activities. The Film and Video Censorship Board plays a critical role in monitoring and regulating media and entertainment content to ensure they align with the state’s cultural and religious ethos.

On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, the Executive Secretary of the Kano State Film and Video Censorship Board, Abba El-Mustapha, issued an official statement detailing the revocation of licences for the eight entertainment centres. He emphasized the board’s commitment to ensuring that entertainment businesses operate within the legal and moral boundaries set forth by the state’s regulatory framework.

El-Mustapha stated clearly:
“This action reflects our commitment to ensuring that Kano’s entertainment industry operates within the boundaries of our laws and moral standards.”

Reasons Behind the Revocation of Licences

According to El-Mustapha, the entertainment centres that were banned indefinitely had repeatedly violated the board’s guidelines. These violations included activities that undermine public morality and the cultural values cherished by Kano’s communities.

He explained:
“The banned centres have repeatedly flouted the board’s guidelines, and their operations are no longer permissible.”

Among the key violations cited were the hosting of late-night events, which are viewed as inappropriate within the community’s religious context. Additionally, some centres were reportedly showcasing vulgar or indecent content that conflicts with Kano’s cultural and moral expectations. Others were found operating without proper regulatory approvals, further compounding the board’s concerns.

List of Entertainment Centres Banned in Kano State

The Executive Secretary publicly disclosed the names and locations of the entertainment centres whose licences were revoked:

• Hamdala Entertainment – Ungoggo

• Lady J Entertainment – Sanya Olu

• Dan Hausa Entertainment – Sanya Olu

• Ni’ima Entertainment – Zungeru

• Ariya Entertainment – Abedi Sabon Gari

• Babbangida Entertainment – Balatus

• Harsashi Entertainment – Ebedi Sabon Gari

• Wazobiya Entertainment – Sanya Olu

This explicit identification is intended to serve as a warning to other entertainment businesses to adhere strictly to the rules and standards set by the Kano State Film and Video Censorship Board.

Warning Against Attempts to Circumvent the Ban

In his statement, Abba El-Mustapha issued a stern warning to those who might consider circumventing the ban by rebranding or reopening under different names. The board’s monitoring teams remain vigilant and ready to take swift legal action against any such attempts.

He warned:
“Our monitoring teams are vigilant. Any individual or group caught attempting to bypass this ban will be arrested and prosecuted.”

This underlines the board’s zero-tolerance policy towards defiance of regulatory orders and emphasizes the seriousness with which these measures are enforced.

The Broader Context: Recent Crackdown on Indecent Content

This clampdown on entertainment centres comes on the heels of a related crackdown by the board on Hausa drama series being streamed on YouTube and aired on local TV stations. Several popular dramas were suspended due to allegations of indecent content and lack of proper censorship clearance from the board.

The Kano State Film and Video Censorship Board, through El-Mustapha, clarified that the goal of these actions is not to suppress creativity or entertainment but to ensure that content produced and distributed respects Kano’s societal values.

He noted:
“We encourage filmmakers and entertainers to collaborate with us in creating works that reflect Kano’s cultural and religious identity.”

This statement highlights the board’s willingness to engage constructively with content creators, fostering a collaborative environment where creative expression can flourish within acceptable boundaries.

Supporting a Responsible and Compliant Entertainment Industry

In addition to enforcement, the board reiterated its commitment to supporting the creative industry in Kano State through dialogue, training, and regulatory guidance. This holistic approach aims to encourage compliance while promoting quality content that positively represents Kano’s traditions and beliefs.

El-Mustapha stressed the board’s ultimate goal:
“Our ultimate goal is to strike a balance between creativity and respect for our norms and traditions.”

By offering educational programs and workshops, the board hopes to equip filmmakers, producers, and entertainment venue operators with the necessary knowledge to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.

Conclusion: Kano State’s Firm Stance on Entertainment Regulation

The revocation of licences for eight entertainment centres in Kano State is a clear indication of the government’s firm stance on protecting its cultural and moral values within the entertainment sector. While this move has sparked mixed reactions, it underscores the need for entertainment providers to align their operations with local laws and societal expectations.

The Kano State Film and Video Censorship Board, under the leadership of Abba El-Mustapha, continues to balance the encouragement of creative expression with the imperative of preserving Kano’s unique cultural and religious identity. As the industry evolves, all stakeholders are urged to engage collaboratively with the board, ensuring that entertainment in Kano remains respectful, lawful, and enriching for its diverse audiences.

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