A prominent group of political commentators in Kano State, known as the Gauta Club, has declared its full support for the recent government ban on live political broadcasts on radio and television.
The group says the measure is necessary to curb the rising use of inflammatory language that threatens public peace.
Speaking to journalists in Kano on Monday, the club’s chairman, Hamisu Danwawu Fagge, urged authorities to ensure that all political programmes are thoroughly vetted before being aired.
“We support the ban on live political programmes. Content should be vetted before it goes public,” Fagge said.
Why the club was formed
Fagge explained that the Gauta Club was created to encourage responsible political dialogue and help foster peace in the state.
“That is why we founded the Gauta Club — to ensure that political commentary contributes to peace and unity in Kano State,” he stated.
The chairman noted that many residents of Kano have welcomed the ban as a positive development. “Many residents in Kano are in favour of this move. It is seen as a step in the right direction,” he said.
Call to regulate live interviews
The Gauta Club also advocated for a complete stop to live interviews with politicians.
Fagge argued that this would help clean up the political media space and prevent abusive language.
“This measure will help reduce the use of foul language and personal attacks in political programmes,” he added.
To reinforce the club’s principles, Fagge said Gauta Club would introduce internal screening measures for its members. “We’ll vet every member before they speak publicly. We also intend to visit the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and radio stations to push for wider enforcement,” he announced.
Diverse but united membership
He concluded by highlighting the political diversity of the group, stressing that members come from various political backgrounds — NNPP, APC, and PDP — but are united by a shared desire to maintain peace in Kano State.