A Federal High Court in Kano has issued an ex-parte order preventing Governor Abba Yusuf from reinstating Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II.
The court also halted the implementation of a new law that abolished the four emirates of Bichi, Gaya, Karaye, and Rano.
The order, given by Justice Liman, directs all involved parties to maintain the status quo pending the determination of a suit filed by the Sarkin Dawaki Babba, Aminu Babba-Dan Agundi. The suit challenges the recent actions taken by the Kano State government.
The defendants in the suit include the Kano State government, the Kano State House of Assembly, the Speaker of the State Assembly, the Kano State Commissioner of Police, the Inspector General of Police, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Department of State Security.
“Parties are hereby ordered to maintain status quo ante the passage of and assent of the bill into law pending the hearing of the Fundamental Rights application,” Justice Liman stated.
The court’s decision comes on the same day Governor Yusuf announced Emir Sanusi’s re-appointment shortly after signing the Kano Emirate Council (Amended) bill into law. The signing ceremony was held at the government house in the presence of the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, Hon. Ismaila Falgore, and other principal officers.
Governor Yusuf argued that the new law, which abolishes the emirates created by former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, would promote unity and socio-economic development in Kano.
“The return of Emir Sanusi will propel peace and prosperity and restore the lost glory of the state and its rich cultural heritage,” the governor said.
However, Justice Liman in his ruling emphasised the need to address the constitutional and jurisdictional issues raised by the suit.
He said, “In order to maintain the peace and security of the state, an Interim Injunction of this Honourable Court is granted restraining the Respondents from enforcing, executing, implementing, and operationalising the Kano State Emirate Law Council (Repeal) Law.”
“That parties are hereby ordered to maintain status quo ante the passage and assent of the bill pending the hearing of the Fundamental Rights application.”
The case has been adjourned to June 3, 2024, for the hearing of the Fundamental Rights application.
