A controversy surrounding an alleged altercation between a Kano State government aide and a journalist during the Argungu Motor Rally has taken a new turn, with the journalist indicating that legal action may follow if no formal apology or communication is issued.
The incident reportedly occurred at the Race Course in Kano metropolis during the Argungu Motor Rally, an event held as part of activities marking the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival.
The government official involved, Auwal Sani Rogo, a Senior Special Reporter with the Kano State Government, was alleged to have engaged in a verbal exchange with Abdulbaki Ali Ahmed Sharifai, who was covering the event in his professional capacity.
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Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred shortly after Sharifai and other journalists conducted an interview at the venue.
The altercation reportedly took place 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; and Alhaji Abba El-Mustapha, Chairman of the Kano State Censorship Board.
Following the incident, Sharifai proceeded to the Divisional Police Office in Bompai, headquarters of the Kano State Police Command, where he lodged a formal complaint over alleged insult, harassment, and intimidation while carrying out his lawful duties.
However, the government aide was said to have declined a police invitation, allegedly remaining within the Kano State Government House.
In an effort to resolve the issue amicably, Commissioner Waiya reportedly invited the journalist for dialogue and assured him of intervention, including facilitating an apology from Rogo.
As of the time of filing this report, no official apology or formal communication has been issued by 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 Sharifai indicated that legal action remains a possible option if the matter is not formally addressed.
Sharifai maintains that he was performing his lawful professional duties at the time of the alleged incident and deserves institutional response and redress.
The development has generated conversations within media circles regarding respect for journalists and professionalism at public events.
As of press time, neither Rogo nor the Kano State Government has released an official public statement on the matter.