A Kano Federal High Court, in a dramatic turn of events, has ruled against the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano. The judgement, delivered by Justice Mohammed Liman on Wednesday, June 19th, 2024, effectively voids the Kano State Emirate Council Repeal Law passed in May by the Kano State House of Assembly, which paved the way for Sanusi’s return to the throne.
This latest development throws the Kano Emirate succession saga back into uncertainty and reignites the long-standing feud between Sanusi and Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
A Legal Challenge Blocks Sanusi’s Return
The lawsuit challenging Sanusi’s reinstatement was filed by Alhaji Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, the Sarkin Dawaki Babba, one of the deposed Kano emirate kingmakers. Dan Agundi argued that the Kano State government violated his fundamental human rights when it removed him from his position without due process. He further challenged the legality of the Kano State Emirate Council Repeal Law, asserting that the Kano State House of Assembly lacked the jurisdiction to dissolve existing emirates.
Court Questions Jurisdiction, Throws Case into Limbo
In his judgement, Justice Liman acknowledged the complexity of the case. While not directly ruling on the legality of Sanusi’s reinstatement, he focused on the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case. The judge highlighted the need to determine whether the Federal High Court has the authority to intervene in internal chieftaincy affairs traditionally handled by state governments.
Justice Liman subsequently adjourned the case until a later date to allow for a proper determination of jurisdiction. This throws the future of the Kano Emirate and Sanusi’s potential return into limbo.
Reactions Trail Court Decision
The court’s decision has sparked mixed reactions across Kano and Nigeria. Sanusi’s supporters expressed disappointment and called for an appeal. Some argued that the decision was politically motivated, a continuation of the Ganduje administration’s perceived vendetta against the former Emir.
On the other hand, supporters of the current Emir, Aminu Bayero, who was dethroned to pave the way for Sanusi’s reinstatement, welcomed the verdict. They see it as a vindication of the traditional selection process and a restoration of order to the Kano Emirate.
Governor Ganduje Maintains Silence
Governor Ganduje has yet to comment on the court’s decision. His silence is being interpreted in various ways. Some see it as a calculated move to avoid escalating tensions, while others believe he is waiting for a clear legal path before making a statement.
The Historical Context: A Long-Standing Feud
The current crisis has its roots in the strained relationship between Sanusi and Ganduje. Sanusi, a former Central Bank Governor known for his outspokenness on social and economic issues, frequently criticized the Ganduje administration, particularly on matters of corruption. This led to a public falling out, culminating in Sanusi’s controversial dethronement in 2020.
Looking Ahead: Uncertainty and Potential for Further Conflict
The court’s decision leaves the Kano Emirate succession in a state of flux. Sanusi’s potential return remains uncertain, and the future of the other dethroned emirs appointed by Ganduje hangs in the balance.
There are concerns that this saga could further destabilize Kano and potentially lead to social unrest. Both the Kano State government and Sanusi’s legal team are expected to appeal the court’s decision, potentially setting the stage for a protracted legal battle.
The Wider Implications: Implications for Traditional Institutions
This case also raises broader questions about the role of traditional institutions in contemporary Nigeria. The power struggle between the Kano State government and the Emirate highlights the tension between tradition and modernity. It also underscores the need for a clearer legal framework governing chieftaincy affairs to prevent future conflicts.
Conclusion: A Saga with No Easy Answers
The court’s decision on Sanusi’s reinstatement is just the latest chapter in a long-running drama. With no clear resolution in sight, the Kano Emirate saga is likely to continue dominating headlines for the foreseeable future. Whether Sanusi will ever return to the throne or a compromise solution can be reached remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the fight for control of the Kano Emirate is far from over.
