In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court in Kano has annulled the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano. The decision, delivered on Thursday, also invalidated all actions taken following his controversial reinstatement.
Justice Abdullahi Muhammad Liman, the presiding judge, declared, “I hereby order that every step taken by the Government is nullified and becomes null and invalid. This does not affect the validity of the repealed Emirates Law, but actions taken by the Governor, which include assenting to the Law and the reappointment (of Sanusi), are void.”
Justice Liman highlighted the governor’s awareness of a court order to maintain the status quo pending the hearing and determination of motions in the court. “Having been satisfied that the respondents are aware of the court order, the court, in exercise of its powers, sets aside actions in violation of the court’s order,” he stated. “It is a very serious matter for anyone to flout court orders and expect to go scot-free.”
The judge emphasized that the chaotic situation could have been avoided if the respondents had adhered to due process and complied with the court’s directive. Instead, he noted, they chose to act on their own accord, leading to significant legal repercussions.
This ruling underscores the importance of upholding judicial orders and following due process in governmental actions.
