The Kano State Government has denied a recent report by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), which accused the state of suppressing press freedom. During a press briefing, Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Wayya, described the report as baseless and lacking credible evidence. He stressed that Kano fully respects journalists’ rights and follows constitutional principles on free expression.

Wayya explained that the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf welcomes criticism, but only when it is based on verified facts. He said the government will not accept false claims meant to damage its reputation or mislead the public. According to him, the state supports open dialogue but will defend itself against attempts to spread misinformation.

The WSCIJ’s report titled “Shrinking Freedoms: 2024 Journalism and Civic Space Status Report” had listed Kano, Lagos, and Abuja as states where press freedom violations were most frequent. However, Wayya dismissed the findings, saying the Centre does not have proper representation in Kano and relied on unreliable sources. He accused the organization of pushing a hidden agenda.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to media-friendly policies, Wayya pointed out that Governor Yusuf has received multiple national and international awards, including recognitions from Leadership Newspaper and African Leadership Magazine. He recalled that during the 2024 nationwide protest, Kano was the only state where the governor peacefully welcomed protesters and engaged them in dialogue.

Wayya concluded by reaffirming that the Kano government works transparently and remains committed to democratic values and journalist rights. He assured that the administration will continue to engage openly with the public and civil groups in the interest of good governance.