A Kano-based journalist, Ibrahim Dan’uwa Rano, has been detained by police officers at the Zonal Police Headquarters in Kano following a petition filed by Abdullahi Rogo, the embattled Director-General of Protocol to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Mr. Rogo, who is currently under investigation by both the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over an alleged ₦6.5 billion scandal, accused Mr. Rano of defamation of character.
According to Daily Nigeria, police operatives stormed Mr. Rano’s office in Kano and whisked him away without presenting an arrest warrant. He was subsequently taken to the Zonal Police Command for interrogation.
Sources said the journalist was questioned over alleged defamation and for operating an online television platform without a National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) licence.
However, Mr. Rano reportedly clarified that online media outlets are not required by law to obtain an NBC licence, a position consistent with existing digital media regulations in Nigeria.
Despite his explanation, the journalist was detained in a cell, allegedly on the orders of the embattled Director-General.
Controversy Over ‘Imalu’ Broadcast
The case stems from an episode of Mr. Rano’s programme titled “Imalu”, in which he suggested that “a certain DG protocol” was allegedly collecting bribes from individuals seeking audience with his principal.
Although no names were mentioned in the broadcast, the police reportedly insisted that the journalist must “produce Imalu,” the fictional character featured in the programme, before he could be released.
As of the time of filing this report, the Kano Zonal Police Command has not issued an official statement regarding the arrest or detention of Mr. Rano.
Source: Sahara Reporters
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