Police Detain Kano Journalist Over Alleged Defamation

The Zone 1 Headquarters of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in Kano State has confirmed that it was investigating a Kano-based journalist and online broadcaster, Ibrahim Ishaq, popularly known as Dan Uwa Rano, over allegations of defamation of character.

The confirmation followed widespread public concern after Ishaq’s detention on Saturday, allegedly linked to a petition filed by Abdullahi Rogo, the director-general of Protocol at the Kano State Government House, who is currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over an alleged ₦6.5 billion money laundering case.

LEADERSHIP reports that initial accounts from the detained journalist’s close associates claimed he was whisked away by the police while working in his office in Kano on Saturday without presenting an arrest warrant, and immediately taken to the zonal police command for questioning following a comment he made in a programme called “Imalu” on his online platform.

However, in a statement issued on Sunday, the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Bashir Muhammad, said AIG Ahmed Garba, directed that Ishaq be invited for questioning based on the petition against him.

“After a thorough investigation, if found wanting, he will be charged to court,” the statement read.

The police further advised media practitioners to ensure balance in their reportage and to engage the Zonal Public Relations Unit before publishing sensitive stories. AIG Garba also cautioned journalists against interfering with ongoing investigations, urging them to “allow the law to take its course.”

The command assured the public that the investigation would be conducted impartially and that its findings would be made public.

The statement did not, however, clarify the legality of the journalist’s initial detention or the claims that he was held without an arrest warrant.

Meanwhile, several press freedom advocates and civil society groups have continued to call for Ishaq’s release and an end to what they described as attempts to intimidate journalists for carrying out their professional duties.