While no official reason was given, Dawakin-Tofa’s message hinted at “recent developments” being the motivation behind this decision even as the message has raised an eyebrow.
The Kano State government under Governor Abba Yusuf’s administration has withdrawn accreditation from 14 journalists who were assigned to cover government activities.
Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the governor’s spokesperson, informed the affected journalists via a message on Monday, directing them to return to their organisations for replacements.
While no official reason was given, Dawakin-Tofa’s message hinted at “recent developments” being the motivation behind this decision even as the message has raised an eyebrow.
It is worth noting that Governor Abba Yusuf has been in office since May 29, 2023, and has a background in politics, having served as commissioner of Works, Housing and Transport in Kano State from 2011 to 2015.
His administration has faced legal challenges, including a recent Supreme Court case that upheld his election as governor.
However, the reason behind the withdrawal of accreditation from the journalists remains unclear.
“Gentlemen of the press. Permit me to thank all of you for a job well done in the last one year and a few months. Unfortunately, while I was away in the Republic of Serbia last week, some undisclosed issues happened, and the leadership needed to take a decision at this critical time,” the governor’s spokesman said.
The 14 journalists affected, including directors, producers, and cameramen from various media organizations.
Among those named were: Aliyu Yusuf, Director Public Enlightenment – Sani Suraj Abubakar, PRO- Adamu Dabo, Chairman Crew – FRCN- Naziru Yau, ARTV- Sadiq Sani AA, ARTV- Rabiu Sunusi, Triumph- Umar Sheka, Freedom- Jabir Dan’abba, Nasara- Labaran Sound- Simon, AIT Cameraman- Nasiru Danhaki, NTA- Abdullahi Sule, Driver- Murtala Baba Kusa, Express- Ibrahim Muazzam, Radio Kano.