In a significant ruling on Thursday, Justice Liman Mohammed of the Federal High Court in Kano declared that the court has jurisdiction to hear the lawsuit involving the dethroned Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero.
This decision centers on the legal tussle over the Kano Emirate, following recent political developments in the state.
Justice Mohammed stated that the court’s authority to hear the case stems from the applicants’ claims of violations of fundamental rights, rather than chieftaincy issues. Consequently, the Federal High Court has the inherent power to consider, hear, and adjudicate on the matter.
The lawsuit was brought forward by Aminu Babba Dan Agundi on behalf of Aminu Ado Bayero. The judge affirmed that the Federal High Court has the authority to initially hear the case and will continue to oversee the proceedings.
This legal battle follows the Kano State Assembly’s passage of the Kano Emirates Council (repeal) bill on May 23, which Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf subsequently approved. The bill’s enactment led to the dissolution of the newly created emirates in the state.
In a controversial move, Governor Yusuf reinstated Lamido Sanusi as the sole Emir of Kano. This action prompted Aminu Ado Bayero, who was dethroned as a result, to challenge the decision in court. The lawsuit was filed by the Sarkin Dawaki Babba of the Kano Emirate, Alhaji Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, contesting the governor’s decision.
