Kano Government shuts 8 entertainment joints for flouting operation rules

Friday, May 23, 2025 - The Kano State Film and Video Censorship Board has revoked the operational licences of eight entertainment centres in the state. 

The centres were banned indefinitely as part of a broader effort to uphold Kano’s cultural, religious, and moral values. 

The Executive Secretary of the board, Abba El-Mustapha, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, May 21. 

He said, “This action reflects our commitment to ensuring that Kano’s entertainment industry operates within the boundaries of our laws and moral standards. 

“The banned centres have repeatedly flouted the board’s guidelines, and their operations are no longer permissible. 

“The eight proscribed entertainment centres include:

Hamdala Entertainment – Ungoggo

Lady J Entertainment – Sanya Olu
Dan Hausa Entertainment – Sanya Olu
Ni’ima Entertainment – Zungeru
Ariya Entertainment – Abedi Sabon Gari
Babbangida Entertainment – Balatus 
Harsashi Entertainment – Ebedi Sabon Gari
Wazobiya Entertainment – Sanya Olu” 

El-Mustapha warned that any attempt to rebrand or continue operations under different names would result in legal action. 

“Our monitoring teams are vigilant. Any individual or group caught attempting to bypass this ban will be arrested and prosecuted,” he said. 

According to reports, the targeted centres allegedly engaged in activities deemed contrary to public morality, including hosting late-night events, showcasing vulgar content, and operating without proper regulatory approvals. 

This crackdown follows closely on the heels of the board’s suspension of several Hausa drama series on YouTube and local TV stations over allegations of indecent content and lack of proper censorship clearance. 

El-Mustapha clarified that the actions were not aimed at stifling creativity but at curbing content and behaviors that undermine societal values. 

“We encourage filmmakers and entertainers to collaborate with us in creating works that reflect Kano’s cultural and religious identity,” he said.

The board reiterated its commitment to fostering a responsible and compliant creative industry, offering dialogue, training, and support to those willing to adhere to its regulations. 

“Our ultimate goal is to strike a balance between creativity and respect for our norms and traditions,” the Executive Secretary stated.