Nigeria Today Magazine General News Appeal court reinstates Emir Sanusi, overturns lower court verdict

Appeal court reinstates Emir Sanusi, overturns lower court verdict



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The Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, on Friday delivered a landmark judgment reinstating Muhammadu Sanusi II as the legitimate 16th Emir of Kano. The appellate court nullified a Federal High Court ruling that had earlier questioned Sanusi’s appointment and upheld the Kano State Government’s authority over the emirate council.

In a unanimous decision by a three-member panel led by Justice Mohammed Mustapha, the Court of Appeal declared that the Federal High Court had acted beyond its jurisdiction by ruling on chieftaincy matters, which it is not empowered to adjudicate.

The case originated from a suit filed by Aminu Babba Dan’Agundi, a member of the Kano Emirate Council, challenging the dissolution of the five emirates and the sacking of Aminu Ado Bayero under the Kano Emirate Council Repeal Law 2023. Dan’Agundi argued that the law and the subsequent appointment of Sanusi infringed on his fundamental rights.

However, the appellate court ruled that chieftaincy disputes do not fall under the scope of fundamental rights and criticized the Federal High Court’s decision to maintain the status quo, describing it as improper and beyond its authority.

The judgment also overturned a similar ruling by Justice Amina Aliyu of the Kano State High Court, which had perpetually restrained Bayero from claiming the throne. The Court of Appeal directed the Kano State Chief Judge to reassign the case for a fresh hearing, emphasizing the importance of fair hearing principles.

This ruling cements Sanusi’s position as Emir, a title he reassumed on May 3, 2024, following the reinstatement of the Kano Emirates Repeal Law by Governor Abba Yusuf. The judgment also underscores the Kano State Government’s legislative authority over chieftaincy matters.

With this decision, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II retains his rightful place as the 16th Emir of Kano, reaffirming the court’s commitment to upholding the rule of law in traditional

 

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