Kano Film Board shuts down entertainment centres for violating cultural, regulatory standards

On Thursday, May 22, the Kano State Film and Video Censorship Board announced the revocation of operational licences for eight entertainment centres across the state, citing repeated violations of cultural, religious, and regulatory standards.
Abba El-Mustapha, the Executive Secretary of the Board, revealed that the closures are part of a broader effort to sanitize the entertainment sector and ensure compliance with societal values. He emphasized the Board’s commitment to ensuring that the entertainment industry in Kano operates within the boundaries of the law and upholds moral standards.
“This action reflects our commitment to ensuring that Kano’s entertainment industry operates within the boundaries of our laws and moral standards,” El-Mustapha said.
The affected centres include:
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Hamdala Entertainment in Ungoggo
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Lady J Entertainment, Dan Hausa Entertainment, and Wazobiya Entertainment in Sanya Olu
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Ni’ima Entertainment in Zungeru
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Ariya Entertainment in Abedi Sabon Gari
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Babbangida Entertainment in Balatus
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Harsashi Entertainment in Ebedi Sabon Gari
According to El-Mustapha, these centres were found to be in persistent violation of the Board’s guidelines, hosting late-night events, showcasing vulgar content, and operating without the necessary regulatory approvals.
He also issued a stern warning that any attempts to rebrand or resume operations under new names would lead to prosecution. “Our monitoring teams are vigilant. Any individual or group caught attempting to bypass this ban will be arrested and prosecuted,” El-Mustapha warned.