Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State, Nigeria expressed dissatisfaction on Friday, May 24, with a recent Federal High Court order restraining the state government from implementing the Kano State Emirate Council Repeal Law. The order was issued by Justice Mohammed Liman, who the governor claims is currently in the United States.
Governor Yusuf highlighted the suspicious timing of the order, noting that he signed the new law at 5:14 PM on Thursday, just before the court issued the restraining order. “It means they were already armed with the motion ex-parte even before I gave assent to the bill passed by the State House of Assembly. At what time had they approached the court to obtain the order?” he questioned.
The restraining order was secured by Alhaji Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, a kingmaker, and names multiple respondents including the Kano State Government, the State House of Assembly, the Speaker, the Attorney-General, the Commissioner of Police, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the State Security Service (SSS).
Governor Yusuf criticized the legitimacy of the court order, questioning how Justice Liman could issue an order from abroad. “The judge is in America, how can he sit in America and give an order in Nigeria to stop a legitimate process?” he queried.
The governor defended the process of reinstating Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano, stating that the delay was due to adherence to due process. He emphasized that the State Assembly had completed its legislative duties, and consultations were held with law enforcement agencies and kingmakers before the law was signed.
The Kano State Emirate Council Repeal Law 2024 effectively overturns the previous law enacted on December 5, 2019, which had split the Kano Emirate into five and led to Sanusi’s dethronement. The new law mandates that traditional office holders and titleholders appointed under the repealed law revert to their original positions as per recognized customs and traditions.
Governor Yusuf assured that Sanusi’s return to the throne is legitimate, stating, “It is not a new stool, neither is Sanusi a new emir. The king has only returned home to his throne after it was balkanized. It has all along been his throne.” He added that the situation in Kano is peaceful and urged residents to continue their daily activities without concern.
Governor Yusuf also highlighted the broad support for the new law, which he says reflects the will of the people and their traditions. He concluded by reiterating the stability and calm in Kano, calling for citizens to conduct their business as usual.
