The National Coalition of Northern Lawyers and Public Interest Activists (NCNLPIA) has welcomed the landmark ruling that overturned the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano. The group emphasized that this judgment affirms the widespread belief that the actions of the Kano State Government in dissolving the Kano Emirates and dethroning Emir Ado Bayero were unlawful.
Justice Abdullahi Liman of the Federal High Court in Kano invalidated all the steps taken by Governor Abba Yusuf following the amendment of the Kano Emirate law by the State House of Assembly on May 23, 2024. The judge criticized the governor for approving the bill and issuing an appointment letter to Sanusi on May 24, 2024, despite a court order to maintain the status quo.
During a press conference, Barrister Napoleon Otache, the convener, commended the court for upholding the rule of law and protecting the integrity of traditional institutions. He stated that the ruling represents a victory for justice, truth, and the people of Kano State.
As a result, the group called on Governor Yusuf to apologize to Emir Ado Bayero for the distress and harm caused by the illegal dissolution of the Kano Emirates. Otache urged the governor to accept the court’s decision and work towards peace and reconciliation in Kano State.
The statement issued by the group highlighted the significance of the judiciary as the ultimate recourse for ordinary citizens, emphasizing that justice prevails over power. It emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law and criticized the governor and Sanusi for their hasty and unlawful actions.
The ruling served as a reminder that rushing into unlawful actions will not sustain them in the long run. It also underscored the need for the Kano State Government to respect the separation of powers and not become an authoritarian regime.
The NCNLPIA called on Governor Yusuf to acknowledge his defeat in the matter of the Kano Emirate Council (Repeal) Law 2024 and to stop wasting public resources on frivolous appeals. They urged cooperation with Emir Ado Bayero for the sake of peace and compliance with the court’s ruling. The group expressed hope that any remaining legal disputes would align with the Federal High Court’s decision.
The group emphasized the importance of upholding the court’s decision and respecting the rule of law. They stressed the significance of peaceful resolution and cooperation with Emir Ado Bayero to ensure stability in Kano State. The NCNLPIA reiterated their call for Governor Yusuf to refrain from further legal challenges and focus on reconciliation efforts as directed by the Federal High Court. They urged all parties involved to prioritize the well-being of the people of Kano State above personal interests and to work towards unity and harmony in the region.
