The Kano State Film Censorship Board has issued a directive prohibiting the screening of movies that showcase cross-dressing and thuggery within the state.
The Executive Secretary of the board, Abba El-Mustapha, announced this decision during a crucial meeting with management and stakeholders from Kannywood, the Hausa-language film industry.
The spokesman for the board,Abdullahi Sulaiman, highlighted the concerns among the public regarding the potential negative impact of such movies on young people and the erosion of traditional values.
El-Mustapha stressed the importance of preserving customs and values, stating, “It is high time to fish out any film that may demoralize our customs, norms, and values in the name of reaching popularity, viewers, or business making.”
This directive comes amidst differing interpretations of Nigerian law regarding cross-dressing. While the Nigeria Police Force asserts that cross-dressing is not a criminal offense, questions arise about its alignment with societal norms.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, clarified that individuals like Bobrisky cannot be arrested solely based on their choice of clothing or lifestyle, as the police are bound by the law and cannot infringe upon individual freedoms unless unlawful activities are involved.
The decision by the Kano State Film Censorship Board reflects ongoing debates surrounding cultural preservation, freedom of expression, and societal norms in Nigeria.
While stakeholders in the Kannywood industry may face challenges in adhering to these regulations, the board remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding traditional values.
