The Federal High Court sitting in Kano has on Thursday, ruled against Kano State government and others challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the issue of fundamental human rights instituted by a Kano traditional holder, Aminu Babba Dan’Agundi in connection with the Emirship tussle.

Recall that the applicant, who is the traditional title holder of Sarkin Dawaki Babba of Kano emirate, Aminu Babba Dan’Agundi had approached the court seeking for enforcement of his fundamental human rights claimed to have been violated by government action in the Emirship tussle.

The respondents in the suit are Kano State Government as 1st respondent, Kano State House of Assembly (2nd), Speaker of Kano State House of Assembly (3rd), Attorney General of Kano State (4th), Kano Commissioner of Police (5th), Inspector General of Police, IGP (6th), NSCDC and DSS as 7th and 8th respondents respectively.

Delivering the ruling on jurisdiction on Thursday, the presiding judge, Justice Abdullahi M. Liman, ruled that the court has jurisdiction to entertain the matter concerning the applicant’s fundamental human rights.

Justice Liman gave the ruling relying on Section 42 sub-section 1 and Section 315 of the 1999 constitution as amended.

However, reacting to the ruling, the Counsel to the 2nd and 3rd respondents, Ibrahim Isah Wangida, said he will meet with his client to decide the next line of action whether or not they will take the option to appeal the ruling in the Court of Appeal.

Meanwhile, the judge, Justice Liman, adjourned the matter till Friday for hearing of all pending applications saying the case is too sensitive for it to be dragged for too long.

Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf on Thursday met with National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu in Abuja where they discussed issues concerning the Kano Emirship  tussle.

This was contained in a statement issued by Yusuf’s Director-General, Media and Publicity, Malam Sunusi Tofa, in Kano.

Tofa said the meeting was prompted by recent events in Kano following the dissolution of five emirates and the restoration of Emir Muhammad Sanusi II.

Tofa said that the two leaders deliberated on various matters relating to state and national development as well as peaceful coexistence in the state.

Emir Ado Bayero is in court challenging the reinstatement of Emir Muhammad Sanusi  II by the Kano State government.

While Sanusi is operating from the Emir’s Palace, Bayero is holding forth at the Emir’s Guest House.

Tofa quoted Yusuf as describing the meeting as fruitful and emphasised the critical role of NSA in ensuring peace in the country.

“I briefed him on the recent developments in Kano, and we discussed ways to promote national security and development,” he Tofa quoted Yusuf as saying.

The meeting comes after the NSA was accused of meddling in the Kano crisis, which he swiftly denied.

The Kano State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Aminu Gwarzo, had apologised to the NSA for the allegation, attributing it to flawed intelligence.

The meeting coincided with Sanusi’s sixth day at the Kano palace, where a significant majority of district heads and kingmakers have pledged their allegiance to him.

The state government has assured that Kano remains peaceful and tranquil, urging residents to continue their regular activities in compliance with the laws of the land.

Sanusi Makes First Appointment amid Emirship Tussle

In as much as the controversy trailing Kano Emirate tussle continues, the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II had on Thursday made his first appointment.

This was coming barely a week after he was reinstalled as the Emir.

Sanusi, the former Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, approved the appointment of a new Ward Head of Kofar Mazugal, Hamisu Sani in Dala Local Government area of the state.

The Emir called on the new ward Head to ensure peaceful coexistence among the subjects of the area and contribute his quota towards the development of the state as a whole.Earlier, district heads and personalities such as delegations from religious and market bodies paid homage to Emir Sanusi at the palace.

By John Egbeazien Oshodi

The controversy began with the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II, as Emir by Governor Abba Yusuf, following the repeal of a law that had previously led to Sanusi’s deposition. Amidst these legal proceedings, your return to Kano and the subsequent tensions highlight the complexities of political and traditional leadership dynamics.

Dear Ex Emir Bayero,

In the midst of the current political and legal turmoil, it is essential to pause and reflect on the principles of honor, integrity, and wisdom that have long been associated with your esteemed lineage.

As a leader revered for your adherence to rules and traditions, you have the unique opportunity to exemplify the highest standards of leadership in these challenging times. I write to you as a native Nigerian, deeply invested in the peace and prosperity of our great nation. We have never met, and I have no allegiance to any name here.

A Kano state high court has issued an order restraining you from presenting yourself as the Emir of Kano pending the determination of the ongoing suit. This legal battle is not just a matter of personal contention but a significant event that impacts the peace and stability of the entire Kano region. The court’s mandate, along with the police securing the Nasarawa palace, underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for compliance with judicial rulings.

The controversy began with the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II, as Emir by Governor Abba Yusuf, following the repeal of a law that had previously led to Sanusi’s deposition. Amidst these legal proceedings, your return to Kano and the subsequent tensions highlight the complexities of political and traditional leadership dynamics.

It is reported that former governor and APC chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who played a role in your initial appointment, has been utilizing various interests and means, including a controversial ex parte order issued by Justice Mohammed Liman from the United States, to support your position. However, this action contradicts Nigerian judiciary policies and has raised significant concerns about federal overreach and the potential misuse of power.

As a respected figure, the media has consistently described you as a man of honor and a leader who follows rules. This is a moment to reaffirm these qualities. By acting with integrity and wisdom, you can set a powerful example for your followers and the broader community. It is crucial to recognize that this matter falls within the jurisdiction of the state government and judiciary. The involvement of federal forces, including the military and police, further complicates the situation and risks escalating tensions.

Consider the stance of Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, the former Emir of Gaya, who has accepted his removal as an act of God and expressed no intention to challenge the decision in court. His dignified acceptance serves as a powerful testament to the strength of character and resilience. By choosing a similar path, you can help ease the current tensions and contribute to the restoration of peace and stability in Kano.

Governor Yusuf has been advised by this writer in an earlier publication that strategic psychological approaches be employed in dealing with the situation. By gradually diminishing the resources and authority at your disposal, it becomes clear that the influence of external political figures like Ganduje cannot override the unified resolve of the state. The reality of diminishing power, finances, and resources will inevitably set in, and it is wise to acknowledge this shift and act accordingly.

Governor Yusuf has appealed to President Tinubu to relocate you from Kano to mitigate the threat to peace. This plea underscores the need for a resolution that prioritizes the well-being of the people of Kano over political or personal interests. You do not need to wait for Tinubu; your cooperation in this regard would not only demonstrate your commitment to peace but also reinforce the respect and admiration that the public holds for you.

Ex Emir Bayero, this is a pivotal moment that calls for a leader of your stature to rise above the fray and act in the best interests of the community. You are caught between two warring political figures, Yusuf and Ganduje. By listening to the voice of reason and adhering to the principles of justice and honor, you can help navigate this crisis towards a peaceful resolution. Your actions today will not only define your legacy but also set a precedent for future generations.

The now troubled situation, exacerbated by political heavyweights like Ganduje, stands powerless against the unified resolve of the people and the enduring spirit of the state. The recurrent misuse of federal authority, including judicial bias, coercive policing, and military intervention, cannot sustain one individual’s ambitions against the democratic will of the entire state.

By aligning with the people and upholding democratic ideals, you can transcend political discord and advocate for enduring principles of fairness and righteousness. The people of Kano will honor your legacy if you transcend political turmoil and exemplify leadership grounded in justice and equity.

May wisdom and peace guide your decisions. May Allah bless you now and in the future Sincerely.

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, is an American-based police and prison scientist, forensic psychologist, public policy psychologist, and legal psychologist. He’s a government advisor on forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA and the founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation for Psychological Health. With a significant role in introducing forensic psychology to Nigeria through N.U.C. and Nasarawa State University, he’s also a former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Psychological Association. He’s taught at esteemed institutions like Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Nova Southeastern University, and more, and is currently an online faculty member at Weldios University, Nexus International University, and Walden University.