Zamfara State government has succumbed to pressure and apologized for shutting down five broadcast stations in the state.
The government had directed the closure of some media houses in Gusau, the state capital, for covering a political rally organized by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The affected media stations are the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN’s Pride FM, Gamji TV, Gamji FM, and Al umma TV.
The development came after Governor Bello Matawalle announced a total lockdown in Anka, Bukkuyum, and Gummi Local Government Areas of the state after the resurgence of bandit attacks.
Also, Matawalle ordered the suspension of political meetings and activities in the affected communities.
While speaking on the issue during a press briefing, Chairman of the state Committee on Prosecution of Banditry and Related Offences, Abdullahi Shinkafi, begged the media during a press briefing.
Shinkafi said the government was infuriated by the alleged violation of the executive order.
He said the “illegal political gathering” led to a security breach and noted that “the police has confirmed that one man was shot dead and 18 others injured during the event”.
