Aminu Imam
The Federal High Court sitting in Kano is set to hear a suit today Wednesday, filed by the Islamic Research and Da’awa Foundation, Abuja, against Network AREWA24 Limited and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
The case, Islamic Research and Da’awa Foundation, Abuja vs. Network AREWA24 Ltd. & NBC, centres on allegations that certain Hausa-language programmes aired by AREWA24 contravene established broadcasting standards and undermine Islamic principles as well as Hausa cultural values.
In its originating processes, the plaintiff alleges what it described as the “bastardisation” and misrepresentation of Islamic teachings and Hausa traditions in some of the station’s entertainment and lifestyle content. The Foundation contends that the programmes in question allegedly contain scenes and narratives it considers inconsistent with public morality, religious ethics, and the cultural norms widely upheld across Northern Nigeria.
The suit also joins the NBC as a defendant, accusing the regulatory body of failing in its statutory duty to effectively monitor and sanction content deemed contrary to the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. The plaintiff is reportedly seeking judicial intervention to compel stricter regulatory oversight and ensure compliance with broadcasting guidelines.
Speaking to newsmen, counsel to the plaintiff, Barrister Abba Hikima, confirmed that the matter has been scheduled for hearing on March 4, 2026. He stated that the Foundation approached the court in what he described as a bid to “protect the integrity of Islamic values and safeguard the moral fabric of Hausa society”.
As of press time, neither AREWA24 nor NBC had issued an official statement in response to the allegations. Efforts to obtain comments from representatives of both organisations were unsuccessful.
The outcome of the case is expected to draw significant public interest, particularly among stakeholders in the media industry, religious organisations, and cultural advocacy groups.
