UVA Condemns the Suspension of 22 Hausa Film Series by the Kano State Censorship Board

Unchained Vibes Africa (UVA) strongly condemns the recent decision by the Kano State Censorship Board to suspend 22 popular Hausa-language film series for alleged non-compliance with censorship regulations. This sweeping action, which effectively bans these creative works from airing or streaming,
represents a blatant violation of and a grave threat to freedom of expression, artistic freedom, and the fundamental rights of cultural practitioners in Nigeria.

We remind the authorities that Section 39 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) guarantees every person the right to freedom of expression, including the right to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference. This constitutional protection applies equally to artists and creatives whose work reflects the realities, aspirations, and diversity of Nigerian society. The mass suspension of these films, without due process or an opportunity for fair hearing, not only contravenes Nigeria’s constitutional provisions but also breaches the country’s international human rights obligations. Artistic freedom is protected under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 15 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, both of which affirm the rights of individuals to freely express themselves and to take part in cultural life without undue restriction.

We are deeply concerned that the suspension was carried out without recourse to due process, including consultation with the affected filmmakers or provision for independent appeal mechanisms. By unilaterally halting the dissemination of these films, the Board has not only undermined the creative efforts of numerous artists, but also denied the public access to diverse cultural content that reflects their lived realities, values, and identities.

This action runs contrary to the global commitment to protect cultural rights, especially the right of individuals and communities to freely participate in the cultural life of their society, as recognized by the United Nations Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights. The role of regulatory bodies should not be to suppress artistic voices, but to facilitate an enabling environment where creativity can flourish within a framework that respects both community values and fundamental rights.

The imposition of such arbitrary restrictions without clear, transparent, and participatory guidelines erodes trust in public institutions and sets a dangerous precedent for cultural censorship and authoritarian control. It sends a chilling message to creatives across Nigeria and beyond, discouraging them from tackling complex societal issues through the powerful medium of film and storytelling.

Unchained Vibes Africa calls on the Kano State Government and the Censorship Board to:

1. Immediately lift the suspension on the affected film series.

2. Engage in open, inclusive dialogue with stakeholders in the creative industry, including filmmakers, cultural organizations, and civil society actors.

3. Reform censorship practices to align with Nigeria’s constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression and its obligations under international human rights law.

4. Work collaboratively to develop culturally sensitive but rights-respecting content guidelines that encourage creativity, diversity, and professionalism.

We urge the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and relevant federal authorities to resist complicity in actions that infringe upon cultural and creative rights. Artists must be recognized not as threats to moral order, but as vital contributors to public discourse, education, and social progress.

UVA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending artistic freedom, supporting cultural expression, and promoting human rights across Africa. We stand in solidarity with the affected filmmakers, the Kannywood industry, and all creatives whose voices must not be silenced.