Supporters of Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II erupted in celebration at Kano’s central mosque on Friday after the Court of Appeal ruled in favor of the Emir, dismissing a case challenging his appointment.
The jubilant atmosphere coincided with the Emir leading the Jumu’ah prayer, which began at 2:18 PM, drawing a large congregation.
Court Ruling in Favor of Sanusi
The Court of Appeal in Abuja overturned the June 20, 2024, order by Justice Abubakar Liman of the Federal High Court, Kano, which had nullified steps taken by the Kano State Government under the Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Law 2024. This law facilitated Sanusi’s appointment as the 16th Emir of Kano.
The appellate court determined that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by Aminu Babba Dan Agundi on behalf of dethroned Emir Aminu Bayero. The suit, which led to Justice Liman’s ruling, was declared invalid as the issues pertained to chieftaincy matters, not fundamental rights.
The three-member panel, led by Justice Mohammed Mustapha, emphasized that chieftaincy disputes fall outside the scope of the Federal High Court’s jurisdiction as outlined in Section 251 of the Nigerian Constitution.
Fresh Hearing Ordered for Bayero’s Case
In a related judgment, the Court of Appeal ordered a fresh hearing on another legal dispute involving the Kano Emirate. It found that a previous ruling by the Kano High Court on July 15, 2024, was invalid due to breaches of Aminu Bayero’s right to a fair hearing.
The appellate court criticized the Kano High Court for continuing proceedings without notifying Bayero or allowing him access to legal representation after his lawyer withdrew from the case. Justice Mustapha described the process as a “travesty of justice” and ordered the case to be reassigned to a different judge for expedited resolution.
Impact on the Kano Emirate
The rulings bring an end to a protracted legal battle that threatened the stability of the Kano Emirate. Sanusi’s supporters hailed the verdict as a reaffirmation of his rightful position and an endorsement of the legal framework governing the emirate.
Meanwhile, the case involving Bayero will return to the Kano State High Court for reassessment, ensuring all parties receive a fair hearing in line with judicial standards.
These decisions mark a pivotal moment in the governance and tradition of the Kano Emirate, solidifying Sanusi’s reign while allowing legal redress for Bayero’s claims.
