The palace of Muhammadu Sanusi II erupted in celebration on Friday following a decisive ruling by the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which upheld Sanusi’s rightful position as the 16th Emir of Kano.
The appellate court overturned a June 20, 2024, order by Justice Abubakar Liman of the Federal High Court, Kano, which had nullified the actions taken by the Kano State Government under the Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Law 2024, including Sanusi’s appointment.
The three-man panel, led by Justice Mohammed Mustapha, declared that Justice Liman’s ruling was issued without jurisdiction. It emphasized that the Federal High Court lacked the authority to intervene in matters related to chieftaincy under Section 251 of the Nigerian Constitution.
The court further held that the fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by Aminu Babba Dan Agundi on behalf of dethroned 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Bayero, was invalid, as the claims fell outside the purview of fundamental human rights. Instead, the court determined the case was purely a chieftaincy dispute, which is beyond the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.
The Court of Appeal’s decision brings to an end the prolonged legal battle that had threatened the stability of the Kano Emirate. Sanusi’s supporters hailed the verdict as a strong endorsement of the legal framework governing the emirate and an affirmation of Sanusi’s rightful leadership.
“This is a victory for the rule of law and the sanctity of the Kano Emirate Council. The judgment confirms the legitimacy of Muhammadu Sanusi II’s position as the 16th Emir of Kano,” one of his supporters said.
The legal tussle began when Aminu Bayero, dethroned as the 15th Emir of Kano, challenged the Kano State Government’s enactment of the 2024 Emirate Council Law. Justice Liman had previously issued an order restraining Sanusi’s reinstatement, citing the enforcement of Bayero’s purported fundamental rights.
However, Friday’s ruling clarified that the principal reliefs sought by Bayero’s representatives were unrelated to human rights and were firmly rooted in matters of chieftaincy, which fall under state jurisdiction.
In a related development, a Kano State High Court had earlier issued a restraining order against Bayero and four other sacked emirs, barring them from making claims to the emirship title.
The ruling sparked scenes of jubilation at Sanusi’s palace, with supporters celebrating what they described as a vindication of justice and a restoration of peace within the Kano Emirate.
The Court of Appeal’s decision underscores the importance of respecting constitutional boundaries and reaffirms the autonomy of traditional institutions under state laws.