A BREWING dispute between a Kano State government aide and a journalist has escalated, with the reporter indicating that legal action may be imminent if no formal apology or official communication is issued.
News Point Nigeria reports that the controversy stems from an incident that allegedly occurred at the Race Course in Kano metropolis during the Argungu Motor Rally, an event held as part of activities marking the 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival.
The government official at the center of the dispute is Auwal Sani Rogo, identified as a Senior Special Reporter with the Kano State Government. The journalist involved is Abdulbaki Ali Ahmed Sharifai, who was present at the event in his professional capacity covering the rally.
According to eyewitness accounts, the altercation occurred shortly after a group of journalists, including Sharifai, conducted an interview at the venue. Sources claim that Rogo allegedly directed insulting remarks at the journalist in what sources described as a tense exchange.
The incident reportedly took place in the presence of senior government officials, including Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs; Hajiya Aisha Lawan Saji Rano, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism; and Alhaji Abba El-Mustapha, Chairman of the Kano State Censorship Board.
Following the incident, Mr. Sharifai proceeded to the Divisional Police Office in Bompai, headquarters of the Kano State Police Command, where he lodged a formal complaint.
However, sources alleged that Mr. Rogo declined to honor a police invitation, reportedly citing his affiliation with the Kano State Government House.
Efforts at mediation were said to have been initiated by Commissioner Waiya, who reportedly invited the journalist for dialogue and assured him that he would intervene to ensure an amicable resolution, including an apology from Mr. Rogo.
As of the time of filing this report, no formal apology or official statement has been issued by Rogo, the Kano State Government, or the Office of Special Advisers to the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Sources close to Sharifai revealed that the journalist believes pursuing legal redress may become the most appropriate course of action if the matter remains unresolved. According to the source, Sharifai maintains that he was lawfully discharging his professional duties at the time of the alleged insult and that the matter warrants an institutional response.
“He feels that without proper communication from the concerned parties, seeking remedy in court may be the only viable option to protect his rights and professional integrity,” the source said.
The incident has sparked discussions within media circles in Kano and beyond, with stakeholders emphasizing the importance of professionalism and mutual respect between government officials and journalists at public events.
As of press time, neither Rogo nor the Kano State Government has released a public statement addressing the allegations.