Group commends police for complying with court order stopping Sanusi’s reinstatement 

The Northern Agenda (NA), a civil society organisation (CSO), has commended the police for complying with the court order stopping the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as the Emir of Kano. 

There has been tension in Kano since Abba Yusuf, the state governor, ordered the immediate arrest of Aminu Ado Bayero, the dethroned Emir.

Yusuf’s order came a day after he restored Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano.

Meanwhile, on May 23, a federal high court in Kano ordered the state government not to enforce the Emirate Council Repeal Law 2024.

The law repealed the 2019 version, which was used to oust Sanusi as Emir in 2020.

The amended law passed by the legislature and assented to by Abba Yusuf, the governor of Kano, restores the old order and invalidates the creation of five emirates.

In a statement on Saturday, Salisu Sabo, leader of the northern group, said the security agencies have demonstrated “remarkable professionalism and dedication to their duties” by complying with the court order.

“In a commendable display of professionalism and dedication to upholding the law, the Nigeria police force has pledged to comply with a court order halting the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano, despite the Kano state government’s initial disregard for the ruling,” the statement reads.

“This move is a significant step forward in promoting the rule of law and democratic governance in Nigeria.

“The Kano Emirate case has been a subject of controversy, with various factions vying for power and control.

“However, the court’s decision to halt the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano was clear and unequivocal.

“Unfortunately, the Kano state government initially chose to ignore this ruling, threatening to undermine the authority of the judiciary and the rule of law.

“In this context, the Nigeria Police Force’s decision to comply with the court order is a breath of fresh air.

“By upholding the law and respecting the judiciary’s decision, the police have demonstrated a commitment to democratic values and the protection of human rights.

“This move also sends a strong message to all parties involved that the rule of law will be respected and enforced, regardless of political or personal interests.”