Kano state government has called on the dethroned emir, Aminu Ado-Bayero, and other parties in the Kano emirate suit to respect the judgement of Appeal Court that vacated the order that nullified the reappointment of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as the 16th Emir of Kano.
A three-member panel of the appellate court, in its judgement, led by Justice Mohammed Mustapha on Friday, voided the June 20, 2024, decision of Justice Abubakar Liman of the Federal High Court, which invalidated the Kano State Emirates Council (Repeal) Law 2024 that facilitated Mr Sanusi’s reappointment
Speaking at a press conference in Kano on Saturday, attorney general and commissioner for Justice of the state, Haruna Dederi, urged all parties in the suit to respect the court’s judgment.
He also called on the parties to join hands with the government to promote peace, unity, and progress.
“On behalf of the Kano State Government, we express our profound satisfaction with the Judgment delivered by the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, regarding the Emirate Council matter involving His Highness Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II and other parties.
“The verdict overturned earlier decisions by the Federal High Court and validates the government’s lawful actions regarding the chieftaincy appointments and reforms in the state’s traditional institutions,” he said.
According to Mr Dederi, the ruling had reaffirmed the government’s commitment to justice, fairness, and adherence to due process in its efforts to modernize traditional structures.
He said the government is striving to preserve the cultural heritage of Kano State.
“The judgment further clarifies the rightful jurisdiction over chieftaincy matters, underscoring the constitutional boundaries of the courts in such affairs.
“The decision by the appellate court to void previous judgments that questioned the state’s lawful appointments underscores the correctness of our actions and strengthens our resolve to continue reforms for equitable representation and inclusive governance.
“For the avoidance of doubt, all decisions, pronouncements, and orders made by the Federal High Court Kano have been quashed and set aside by the Court of Appeal.
“Furthermore, the law enacted by the Kano state House of Assembly relating to Emirates and all actions taken by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State pursuant to that law have been fully upheld and legalized by the Court of Appeal.
“Therefore, in strict adherence to the rule of law and in defense of democracy, all public and private institutions, as well as individuals, are required to comply with the Court of Appeal decision and act accordingly to give full effect to the Judgment,” he said.
While extending the government’s appreciation to the judiciary for what he described as “upholding the principles of Justice and fairness”, Mr Dederi noted that the state government remains committed to working with traditional institutions, ensuring harmony, and fostering development across all emirates.
“We urge all parties to respect the court’s judgment and join hands with the government to promote peace, unity, and progress in our beloved state. Let us continue to prioritize the collective good of Kano State above all individual interests,” he added.