The Kano State chapter of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has expressed strong support for media organizations in the state that recently suspended live political broadcasts.
The council described the decision as a necessary step toward preserving peace and promoting responsible journalism.
Speaking during a press briefing in Kano, IPAC Chairman Isah Nuhu Isah commended the “resolute and timely intervention” by Kano’s media outlets.
“This move reflects an admirable commitment to responsible journalism and the de-escalation of political tensions,” he stated.
Isah emphasized that the decision to halt live political programs is aligned with IPAC’s foundational objectives, which include promoting ethical public discourse and ensuring peaceful political engagement across all parties in the state.
“The suspension helps prevent the spread of divisive rhetoric and misinformation that threatens public order and communal harmony,” he added.
He lamented that in recent times, some live political broadcasts have strayed from constructive dialogue and instead served as platforms for incitement and the dissemination of falsehoods.
According to him, such content endangers the peace and democratic integrity of Kano State.
“The media plays an indispensable role in our democracy—as both a mirror and molder of public opinion,” Isah said. “But with this role comes a duty to uphold ethical standards and contribute to the stability of the polity.”
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The IPAC chairman urged political actors and the general public to view the suspension not as an attack on free speech but as a reflective pause.
“This is not a curtailment of free expression. It is a prudent decision aimed at safeguarding democracy and social cohesion,” he explained.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Isah urged all political stakeholders to embrace issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory language. “Let us seize this opportunity to reset the tone of political engagement in Kano,” he urged.
IPAC also announced plans to work with media outlets, civil society organizations, security agencies, and political parties to develop frameworks that promote truthful, respectful, and inclusive communication.
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“In due course, IPAC will engage stakeholders across Kano to design robust mechanisms that support fact-based political programming,” Isah said. “This is how we build a state where democracy flourishes alongside peace and development.”
The council concluded by saluting the media’s courage and foresight in taking the bold step. “We measure this as a spirit of patriotic duty, and we encourage them to sustain it,” Isah declared.
IPAC’s position comes amid growing concerns about the toxic nature of political discourse in Nigeria and the role of media platforms in either fueling or curbing political polarization