CITAD Cautions Kano Government Over Infringement on Digital Rights
By Mustapha Salisu
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has raised alarm over what it describes as a growing pattern of digital rights violations in Kano State, following the recent suspension of 22 Kannywood films by the Kano State Censorship Board.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Y.Z. Ya’u, the organization acknowledged the importance of upholding cultural values and societal ethics but warned that such regulatory actions must not come at the expense of citizens’ constitutional rights particularly the right to freedom of expression and access to information.
“We caution that regulatory actions must not infringe on citizens’ digital rights or suppress creative expression. In an age where the internet is a powerful tool for education, entertainment, and economic empowerment, overly restrictive content regulation risks not only stifling creativity but also driving local filmmakers and youth to unregulated platforms outside the state’s control” the statement read
CITAD expressed concern that such moves could be counterproductive, exposing young people to content that contradicts the very moral values the Censorship Board seeks to protect. It added that the digital space is inherently global and attempts to isolate the state from this interconnected environment may prove both ineffective and damaging to its creative economy.
The organization also cited recent incidents such as the arrest of Buhari Abba, publisher of Kano Times, over his digital content, describing it as a threat to free speech and an erosion of public trust in state institutions.
CITAD urged the Kano State Government to uphold citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and access to information, in line with the Nigerian Constitution.
It also encouraged authorities to avoid actions that could undermine digital rights or harm the state’s creative industries and reputation.
Additionally, the organization called on the Kano State Censorship Board to adopt a more inclusive and collaborative approach by engaging with key stakeholders including filmmakers and digital rights advocates to develop balanced guidelines that safeguard cultural values while respecting the digital rights of citizens.
The statement concluded with a call for dialogue and collaboration to ensure that the state’s regulatory framework evolves with the realities of the digital age.
