To uphold cultural norms and discourage the propagation of unlawful behaviors, the Kano State Film Censorship Board has issued a directive banning the screening of films that portray or endorse cross-dressing and thuggery within the state.
The Executive Secretary of the board, Abba El-Mustapha, disclosed this during a significant gathering with management and stakeholders from Kannywood, the Hausa-language film industry.
Abdullahi Sulaiman, the board’s spokesperson, explained that the decision to prohibit such films arises from increasing apprehensions within the public about their potential adverse impact on youth and the erosion of traditional values.
El-Mustapha emphasized the importance of preserving customs, norms, 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 arises amid differing interpretations of Nigerian law concerning cross-dressing. While the Nigeria Police Force maintains that cross-dressing is not a criminal offense, the controversial nature of this lifestyle prompts questions about its conformity with societal norms.
Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Police Public Relations Officer, clarified that individuals like Bobrisky, a prominent figure in the cross-dressing community, cannot be apprehended solely based on their choice of attire or lifestyle. Adejobi emphasized that law enforcement agencies are obliged to abide by the law and cannot impinge on individual freedoms unless there is involvement in unlawful activities.
The decision made by the Kano State Film Censorship Board mirrors ongoing discussions surrounding cultural preservation, freedom of expression, and societal norms in Nigeria.
While stakeholders in the Kannywood industry may encounter challenges in complying with these directives, the board affirmed its unwavering commitment to preserving traditional values.