Federal High Court Delays Ruling on Kano Emirate Dispute

• A Federal High Court in Kano postponed ruling on the Council Repeal Law 2024, which dethroned Emir Aminu Ado Bayero
• The Kano State Police Command urged the public to remain calm and warned against inciting violence during the court’s ruling

A Federal High Court in Kano has postponed its ruling on the Council Repeal Law 2024 to 2 PM on Thursday. Originally, the ruling was scheduled for noon, but the delay was announced shortly before the initial time.

The law, enacted by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, was used to dethrone the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero. It also reversed the creation of the Bichi, Rano, Karaye, and Gaya emirates by his predecessor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Additionally, the law reinstated the 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, as the 16th Emir following his dethronement by Ganduje in 2020.

Aminu Babba Danagundi, a key figure in the former Kano emirate, challenged the legitimacy of the law. Through his counsel, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), he requested the court declare the law null and void.

Justice Abdullahi Muhammad Liman, who heard the motion last Friday, adjourned the ruling to Thursday. The judge will also rule on a motion for a stay of proceedings filed by A.G. Wakil, representing the State Attorney General and Kano State Government, respondents in Danagundi’s suit.

This case has a significant interest, as the ruling will influence the ongoing emirate dispute.

The Kano State Police Command has urged the public to remain calm and patriotic during the court’s ruling. SP Abdullahi Kiyawa, the command spokesman, affirmed the commitment to safeguarding lives and property and warned against any attempts to incite violence.

“The command, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, will enforce the state government’s ban on public protests, processions, and unlawful gatherings. Violators and their sponsors will face legal consequences. Adequate security personnel will be deployed to maintain order. The public is urged to cooperate with security forces and provide actionable information to ensure peace and identify deviants. Non-state actors, including vigilantes and hunters, are advised to avoid participating in security operations,” he stated.