The Kano State Government has commended the judgment delivered by the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, regarding the Emirate Council matter involving the Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, and other parties.
In a statement, the government described the appellate court’s decision to void previous judgments that questioned the state’s appointments as a validation of its actions.
“This decision underscores the correctness of our reforms and strengthens our resolve to pursue equitable representation and inclusive governance,” the statement reads.
Addressing a world press conference at the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kano State Chapter on Saturday, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Haruna Dederi, hailed the ruling as a significant legal victory.
He said, “The verdict overturns earlier decisions by the Federal High Court and validates the government’s lawful actions regarding chieftaincy appointments and reforms in the state’s traditional institutions.”
Barrister Dederi further emphasised that the judgment clarified the rightful jurisdiction over chieftaincy matters, highlighting the constitutional boundaries of the courts in such affairs.
“This ruling reaffirms the government’s commitment to justice, fairness, and adherence to due process in modernizing traditional structures while preserving the cultural heritage of Kano State,” he said.
He added, “For the avoidance of doubt, all decisions, pronouncements, and orders made by the Federal High Court in 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, along with 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.”
In strict adherence to the rule of law and in defense of democracy, Barrister Dederi urged all public and private institutions, as well as individuals, to comply with the Court of Appeal’s decision and act accordingly to give full effect to the judgment.
