Court orders arrest of Kano musician Ado Gwanja, bans him from releasing new songs

In a significant legal development, Justice Aisha Mahmud of the Kano State High Court has issued an order for the arrest of renowned Hausa musician, Ado Isa Gwanja, along with a ban on releasing new songs. The directive was issued during a hearing held on Monday, reinforcing a prior ruling by an Upper Sharia Court in Bichi local government area of the state.

The decision to arrest Mr. Gwanja stemmed from a direct complaint filed by the Kano Ulama’s Forum over a controversial song titled “Warr,” which the forum deemed to promote immorality and promiscuity. Barrister Badamasi Gandu, representing the Ulama Forum, initiated legal proceedings against Gwanja and six others at the Upper Sharia Court, citing their activities as contrary to the moral teachings of Islam and the cultural values of Kano State.

In response to the legal action, Gwanja and his associates sought a restraining order against their arrest at the state high court. Initially, an interim order was granted, halting the police from executing the arrest pending a hearing for the fundamental rights enforcement application. However, Justice Aisha Mahmud reversed this decision during Monday’s hearing.

The court’s ruling now directs the police to apprehend and investigate the musician, while also imposing a ban on Gwanja’s public performances, including at wedding ceremonies, until the substantive suit is resolved. Furthermore, Gwanja is required to submit his music to the state film and videos censorship board for approval before any future releases can be made.

The court’s decision marks a significant development in the ongoing legal battle surrounding Gwanja’s music, underscoring the intersection of artistic expression, cultural norms, and legal jurisdiction. As the case progresses, it raises important questions about the balance between artistic freedom and societal values, particularly within the context of religious and cultural sensitivities in Kano State.