Kano, Nigeria – The Kano State Films and Video Censorship Board has officially banned all forms of public debates involving praise singers of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), citing rising concerns over potential disunity, misrepresentation, and public disturbances.
The announcement was made on Monday by the Executive Secretary of the board, who stated that the move aims to preserve religious harmony and prevent the growing trend of confrontational or controversial performances in public spaces.
As part of the directive, the board has also summoned two well-known praise artists in the state — Usman Mai Dubun Isa and Shehi Mai Tajul-Izzi — for questioning and further clarification regarding their roles in recent public events that may have violated ethical or regulatory guidelines.
According to the board, while the importance of honoring the Prophet (PBUH) through poetry and praise is respected and encouraged, such acts must be conducted with decorum, unity of purpose, and in line with Islamic values and community peace.
“We are not banning praise singing,” an official clarified. “We are banning the format of public debates that have become competitive and divisive. This is to protect the sanctity of the message and the peace of the society.”
The board emphasized its commitment to regulating religious and cultural content in the state while upholding the values of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. Artists and organizers are encouraged to seek proper approval before hosting public events or releasing religious content to ensure compliance with the state’s censorship laws.
This development has sparked conversations across Kano and beyond, especially within the religious and artistic communities, many of whom view the ban as a necessary step toward restoring discipline in the increasingly popular genre of Islamic praise performance.
