The Chief Justice of the Federation (CJF), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola has summoned both the Chief Judge of the Kano high court, Justice Dije Aboki and the Chief Judge of the Kano Federal high court over Conflicting Court Orders.
It was gathered during the saga that the federal high court sitting in Kano State ordered the removal of Mohammed Sanusi II as the Emir of the Kano Emirate, while the Kano state high court called for the eviction of the deposed Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero.
Different summons on a particular issue of the same region has been a worry to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Ariwoola who has summoned the two Judges for an emergency meeting in his chambers on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
A statement by the NJC’s Director of Information, Soji Oye, said the meeting, a prelude to a whole-scale investigation by the NJC, is to enable the CJN to have a proper briefing with the two judges on the very disturbing development and the conflicting judgements emanating from the two courts with respect to the stool of the Emir of Kano.
There are also strong concerns arising from a section of the National judicial council who are contemplating a summon for both judges for interrogation.
Recall that the Federal High Court in Kano, presided over by Justice S. A. Amobeda, issued an order for the eviction of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II from the Kofar Kudu Palace, reinforcing the authority of the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.
“An order of interim injunction restraining the respondents from inviting, arresting, detaining, threatening, intimidating, harassing the Applicant, or infringing on his rights is hereby granted,” stated Justice Amobeda.
He added, “This order ensures that Emir Aminu Bayero enjoys all rights and privileges accrued to him by virtue of his position.”
On the other hand, the Kano State High Court, under the jurisdiction of Justice Amina Adamu Aliyu, issued an injunction to protect Muhammadu Sunusi and other key figures from potential harassment by state authorities. This order prevents any interference with the Emir’s autonomy and the seizure of key symbols of his authority, such as the twin spear, the Royal Hat of Dabo, and the Ostrich-feathered shoes.
Justice Aliyu emphasised, “An order of interim injunction is granted restraining the Respondents from harassing or intimidating the Applicants or confiscating any symbols of the Emir’s authority.”
She further added, “The respondents are ordered to maintain the status quo pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.”
These orders have significantly impacted negatively on the citizens and have raised growing concerns over the sanctity of the leader of courts of those magnitudes going in opposite directions in a case like this.
The State High Court’s case is set for further hearing on June 13, while the Federal High Court has adjourned its case to June 4.
