Zamfara Government Restricts Media Interactions for Appointees and Civil Servants

The Zamfara State government has imposed a ban on all political office-holders and heads of agencies from engaging in interviews, issuing statements, or participating in programs on radio, television, and social media without prior authorization.

This directive also extends to media organizations operating within the state, requiring them to seek approval from the Ministry of Information for any content related to government policies.

The decision was announced by the State’s Commissioner of Information, Mannir Haidara, who emphasized the Information Ministry’s commitment to monitoring all radio stations to ensure compliance with the new guidelines.

This move comes in response to what the government perceives as the misuse of media platforms by individuals, political groups, and heads of MDAs to discuss state government policies without adhering to proper channels.

As part of the new regulations, the Zamfara State Ministry of Information and Culture has declared that no political office holder, group, or head of any agency will be allowed to conduct interviews, issue statements, or air programs on radio, television, or social media without obtaining permission from the authority.

Furthermore, media organizations have been instructed to refrain from airing any radio or television programs on government policies without the approval of the supervising Ministry or the Ministry of Information.

In a statement, the Information Ministry reiterated its dedication to monitoring the radio stations for compliance, ensuring that all information disseminated to the public regarding government policies is accurate and properly conveyed.

This measure is part of the government’s efforts to maintain control over the narrative surrounding its policies and actions.

This development has sparked discussions on the balance between freedom of speech and the need for responsible communication in the public sphere.

While some view the government’s actions as an attempt to suppress dissenting voices, others argue that it is a necessary step to ensure the accuracy and integrity of information shared with the public.

Regardless of the varying opinions, the Zamfara State government’s decision to regulate media interactions for its appointees and civil servants is a clear indication of its determination to control the flow of information within its jurisdiction.