January 11, (THEWILL) – The Kano State Government has lauded Friday’s Court of Appeal verdict on the emirship tussle in the state, describing it as a reaffirmation of justice, fairness, and due process.
The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Haruna Isa Dederi, made this known during a press briefing at the NUJ Press Centre, Kano, on Saturday.
“On behalf of the Kano State Government, we express our profound satisfaction with the judgment delivered by the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, regarding the Emirate Council matter involving His Highness, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, and other parties,”Dederi said.
The appellate court’s decision overturned earlier rulings by the Federal High Court and upheld the government’s actions regarding chieftaincy appointments and reforms of traditional institutions in the state.
Dederi stated that the judgment underscored the government’s commitment to modernizing traditional structures while preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage.
“This ruling validates the government’s lawful actions and clarifies jurisdiction over chieftaincy matters, reinforcing the constitutional boundaries of the courts in such affairs,” he said.
The attorney general emphasized that the decision voided all previous judgments by the Federal High Court, Kano, that had questioned the state’s actions.
“For the avoidance of doubt, all decisions, pronouncements, and orders made by the Federal High Court, Kano, have been quashed and set aside by the Court of Appeal. Furthermore, the law enacted by the Kano State House of Assembly relating to Emirates, and all actions taken by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, pursuant to that law, have been fully upheld and legalized by the Court of Appeal,” he said.
Dederi urged all individuals and institutions to comply with the appellate court’s decision, stressing the need to uphold the rule of law and democracy.
“All public and private institutions, as well as individuals, are required to comply with the Court of Appeal decision and act accordingly to give full effect to the judgment,” he added.
The government reiterated its commitment to fostering harmony, ensuring equitable representation, and promoting development across all emirates in the state.
The attorney general called on all parties to respect the court’s decision and work together to ensure peace and progress in Kano State.
“Let us continue to prioritize the collective good of Kano State above all individual interests. We extend our appreciation to the judiciary for upholding the principles of justice and fairness,” Dederi said.
The Kano State Government reaffirmed its resolve to collaborate with traditional institutions to advance the socio-economic development of the state.
Abdullahi Yusuf is a seasoned journalist, communicator and was previously the Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Jos, where he retired on December 15, 2021
