The controversy surrounding an alleged altercation between a Kano State government aide and a journalist during the Argungu Motor Rally recently has taken a new turn, as the journalist insists that legal action may be the only option if no formal communication or apology is issued.
The incident reportedly occurred at the Race Course in Kano metropolis during the Argungu Motor Rally, an event organized as part of activities marking the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival.
The government official involved who was identified as Abdullahi Sani Rogo, a Senior Special Reporter with the Kano State Government, while the journalist at the center of the dispute is Abdulbaki Ali Ahmed Sharifai, who was covering the event in his professional capacity.
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According to eyewitnesses, the alleged verbal exchange took place shortly after journalists including Mr. Sharifai conducted an interview at the venue.
The incident occurred in the presence of senior officials, including, comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Hajiya Aisha Lawan Saji Rano, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism as well as 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 filed a formal complaint over alleged Insults, harassment and Intimidations.
However, Rogo declined to honor police invitation and using Kano state government house as shield from arrest.
Subsequently, Commissioner Waiya reportedly invited the journalist for dialogue and assured him that he would intervene in the matter and ensure that Mr. Rogo offers an apology to resolve the issue amicably.
However, as of the time of filing this report, no official apology or formal communication has been issued by Mr. 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 Mr. Sharifai revealed that he believes pursuing legal action may be the most appropriate course if the matter remains unaddressed formally.
The journalist reportedly maintains that he was carrying out his lawful professional duties at the time of the alleged insult and deserves institutional response and redress.
According to the source, Mr. Sharifai holds that without proper communication from the concerned government official, the Kano State Government, or the office of the governor’s special advisers, seeking remedy in a court of law remains the best available option to protect his rights and professional integrity.
The incident has generated conversations within media circles regarding respect for journalists, professionalism at public events.
As of press time, neither Mr. Rogo nor the Kano State Government has released an official public statement on the matter.
The situation remains under close observation as stakeholders await further developments, including whether reconciliation efforts will prevail or the matter will proceed to litigation.