Nationwide strike hampers progress in Kano Emirate tussle hearing
The anticipated hearing of the case brought by Aminu Babba Danagundi contesting the legality of the Kano Emirate (Repeal) Law 2024, which restored Muhammadu Sanusi II as the emir, faced a setback at the Federal High Court in Kano due to the ongoing nationwide strike by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Originally slated for Monday, June 3, and presided by Justice Abdullahi Muhammad Liman, the proceedings were unable to commence as the court premises remained closed.
An unidentified court staff member confirmed that the court would not be holding sessions, whether virtually through Zoom or in person, because of the labor strike.
Previously, the court had issued a temporary restraining order, prohibiting the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) from enforcing the new law pending the resolution of the fundamental rights application brought before it.
Additionally, all involved parties were instructed to maintain the current state of affairs and present arguments on jurisdictional matters concerning chieftaincy affairs.
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The Kano Emirate Repeal Law 2024 had annulled the establishment of the new emirates of Bichi, Gaya, Karaye, and Rano, introduced by the Abdullahi Umar Ganduje administration in 2019.
Among the named parties in the case were the Kano State government, the state’s House of Assembly, its speaker Ismail Falgore, the police commissioner, the Inspector General of Police, NSCDC, and DSS.
Individuals such as lawyers, litigants, and court users were redirected at the entrance as the court was not in session for any legal dealings.
The armed police presence observed at Dangi Roundabout and Court Road leading towards the court raised questions on its association with the awaited hearing in the Kano chieftaincy dispute.
Recent tensions arose after a radio broadcast on Friday announced the presence of the 15th Fulani Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, at the Friday congregation in the Central Mosque, prompting concerns of potential clashes with supporters of the reinstated Emir Sanusi.
However, the police later clarified that the announcement was not endorsed by the monarch and advised residents to disregard it.