The Kano State Government has suspended 22 widely viewed Hausa drama series as part of its effort to enforce state film censorship laws and strengthen regulatory standards in the Kannywood industry.
The suspension was announced on Sunday evening by the Executive Chairman of the Kano State Censorship Board, Abba El-Mustapha, in a statement issued through the board’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Sani Sulaiman, and made available to GTR Hausa.
El-Mustapha stated that the move followed high-level consultations and a detailed internal review to address mounting complaints about the content and compliance levels of Hausa productions.
“This decision was taken after extensive discussions with senior officials of the Board and careful analysis, aimed at putting an end to the numerous complaints we receive and to enhance the operations of the Board as well as the Kannywood industry,” he said.
The suspended dramas include: Dakin Amarya, Mashahuri, Gidan Sarauta, Wasiyya, Tawakkaltu, Mijina, Wani Zamani, Labarina, Mallaka, Kudin Ruwa, Boka Ko Malam, Wa Yasan Gobe, Rana Dubu, Manyan Mata, Fatake, Gwarwashi, Jamilun Jiddan, Shahadar Nabila, Dadin Kowa, Tabarma, Kishiyata, and Rigar Aro.
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El-Mustapha added, “The law empowers the Board to censor any film and monitor the activities of Kannywood practitioners as long as they are registered with the Board, regardless of where they are based.”
He advised sponsors and producers of the affected titles to halt broadcasts on television and digital platforms until full compliance is achieved.
“We are notifying all stakeholders to submit their content for proper review and obtain censorship certification between Monday, 19 May and Sunday, 25 May 2025, in order to avoid legal consequences,” he said.
The Board further called on all TV stations and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to support its effort to ensure compliance and promote standards in the industry.
“We seek the cooperation of all television stations and the NBC to support the success of this campaign to sanitise the film industry in Kano and beyond,” El-Mustapha stated.
While the decision has received praise from regulatory circles, it has also sparked debate among filmmakers and audiences regarding censorship and creative expression.
