The Federal High Court sitting in Kano has nullified the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano. The court also declared all actions taken after his reinstatement as null and invalid.
Justice Abdullahi Liman delivered the judgment, stating that the respondents were aware of the court’s order to maintain the status quo pending the hearing and determination of the motions on notice. He expressed concern that the respondents flouted the court’s order, leading to a “catastrophic situation” that could have been avoided if they had followed due process.
The judgment sets aside the actions taken by the government, including the assent to the law and Sanusi’s reappointment. However, it does not affect the validity of the repealed Emirates Law.
This development is the latest twist in the Kano Emirate tussle, which has been ongoing for some time. Sanusi’s reinstatement had been a subject of controversy, and this court ruling has thrown a new light on the matter.